Dangers of Fleas and Ticks

• Flea saliva is an allergen for many dogs. When a flea bites, the saliva irritates a dog's skin, causing him to scratch, bite and chew - which can lead to sores and even infection.
• Ticks bite too, sucking blood out through your dog's skin. Not only do ticks cause your dog to itch, they can carry diseases that may be transmitted to your dog.

In places with cold winters, fleas and ticks are a seasonal problem, with peaks in the summer and fall. In some warm states, it's a year-round issue.

What You Can Do
Controlling fleas and ticks is the goal. To do that, you must understand how fleas and ticks live. Research suggests that fleas spend most of their time on your pet, but constantly shed their eggs in the house and yard. This provides a continuous source of re-infestation. Like fleas, ticks also live both on and off of dogs.

That means to control a flea and/or tick problem, you need to treat both your dog and the surrounding environment.

• Treating your dog:
  • Powders, sprays, shampoos and dips are excellent tools. Be careful, though. Read and follow label instructions. Combinations of more than one flea or tick treatment can sometimes be harmful to your dog. Your veterinarian will know how to avoid those combinations.
  • Veterinarians also have effective treatment options for your pet including oral and topical medications.
  • Flea collars provide some control. However, some dogs may be allergic to them.
• Treating the inside of your house: Thorough cleaning and vacuuming may do the trick. However, it might also take sprays and foggers.
• Treating the outdoors: Sprays and foggers are commonly used outdoors, as well.

Chemicals for treating your house and yard are available over-the-counter. When all else fails, call a professional exterminator.