Introduction
Fleas are small parasitic insects, in the order Siphonaptera, which feed off of the blood of their host. All fleas live on the skin of their host animal, and there are different species of fleas which feed off of cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and humans (although if hungry, a flea of any species will feed off of any available host). Fleas are known for their ability to jump great distances and for their fast reproduction rates.
Causes of Fleas in Dogs
Dogs pick up fleas if fleas are already present in their environment or if they come into contact with another host that is carrying the fleas (e.g. another cat, dog, or smaller animals such as squirrel or bird). Dogs living in hot and humid climates have higher and more severe instances of flea infestations.
Symptoms of Fleas in Dogs
The symptoms of flea infestations include severe itching, red raised spots on the dog’s skin, the presence of flea feces (also known as ‘flea dirt’) on the dog’s skin, seeing the fleas on the dogs, or the diagnosis of a flea related medical condition such as tape worms (spread by ingesting fleas).
Treating Fleas in Dogs
Treatment for flea infestations includes topical pesticides which kill fleas in most stages of life, medicated shampoos which kill the fleas, or applications which help to reduce flea populations or repel the fleas. The dog’s environment including bedding and housing should also be cleaned or replaced and treated for flea infestations as well.
Outlook for Dogs with Fleas
The outlook for flea infestations in dogs is good particularly due to the effectiveness of monthly topical treatments such as Frontline or Advantage. However, puppies, older dogs, and dogs with underlying medical conditions are at an increased risk for developing life threatening anemia if flea infestations are severe. If these infestations are not addressed in a timely manner for higher risk dog groups, fleas can be fatal.