Dog Flea and Tick Remedies
Our beloved pet dogs can often become the victims of fleas and ticks. Fortunately, there are a few remedies at hand that can bring them back to good health.
Although fleas and ticks are both a type of parasite, they should not be confused with each other.
Fleas and ticks: what’s the difference?
Fleas - A flea is a wingless insect with six legs that can jump far, with a lifespan of more than 100 days
Ticks - Closely related to spiders, most ticks have eight legs, with a lifespan ranging from a few weeks up to three years.
Importance of treating fleas and ticks
Itching – at the start, fleas and ticks can be a general nuisance for your dog as they can cause itching and scratching
Skin diseases - fleas and ticks can also cause allergies that can lead to skin diseases
Tape worms – should your dog continue to suffer from fleas, it is possible that they may swallow a flea, leading to a tape worm forming inside their intestinal tract. It is vital that you treat the problem at hand sooner rather than later
The different types of remedies
Spot-on treatment – designed to kill the parasites through direct contact instead of using your dog’s bloodstream. Simply apply to the back of your dog’s neck.
Collar – fasten the collar on your dog and apply the solution to kill the parasites. Collars usually provide several weeks of protection.
Shampoo – wash your dog using the solution to clean their fur from parasites and free them from infestation, whilst nourishing and revitalising their coat.
Tablets – tablets are an alternative solution to applying products to your dog and can begin to work as quickly as 15 minutes after being taken.
How to prevent ticks and fleas in the future
- Keep your home as dry as possible
- Vacuum your house daily, especially your carpets
- Use specifically designed sprays and repellent powders to treat the rooms of your house, preventing eggs hatching and protecting your home from parasites