As all pet owners know keeping pets at home whether indoors or outdoors can attract pests. Fleas are the most common form of pest in the home. In this article we offer top tips on flea control for dogs.

Managing pets essentials – Flea control for dogs

Dogs are particular targets for the domestic flea. The flea is the common name for the order Siphonaptera. They can be a serious domestic pest, especially if they infest your home, often inadvertently brought in by a pet dog or cat.

Keeping the dog you’re looking after free from fleas

Dog sitting is extremely rewarding, for both pet owner and pet sitter. However, it is important to keep our four-legged friends free from pests. Doing this will ensure the petsitting experience is safe and satisfying.

It is a little known fact that 1 in 7 dogs carry fleas and this can become a big problem if it is not kept in check. Even one flea can be a sign of an infestation. You should be aware that female fleas can lay as many as 50 eggs every day.

Rationale for flea prevention

Keeping the dog that you’re looking after free from fleas is important for their health. Plus, it will also prevent the owner’s house from becoming infested. Fortunately, there are some natural ways you can get rid of fleas without needing harsh, chemical treatments.

You can also take some easy preventative measures that will protect the dog from fleas.

Prevention and flea control for dogs 

Dogs are very susceptible to fleas, especially when they are puppies and haven’t got a strong immune system. The most likely time that they will pick up fleas is when they are out and about exploring.

Although you don’t want to limit the amount of time they spend outdoors, keep your dog under control. Make sure that your dog isn’t in contact with any stray or wild animals that may be flea infested. Daily brushing is an easy way to keep your dog free from pests and you should also make sure that they get a regular bath, especially if you go out walking in country and rural areas.

Home remedy for flea control

Adding a couple of cups of lemon juice to your dog’s bath is an effective and simple way of preventing fleas, as the pH of lemon juice will make the dog’s fur an inhospitable environment for fleas.

Household cleaning

Thoroughly cleaning the house that you are looking after is essential if you want to prevent fleas or get rid of them. Make sure that all bedding in the house – both human and dog beds, are washed with hot water and detergent on a weekly basis. All floors and upholstery should be vacuumed, and you can use a steam cleaner or fabric furnishings and textiles. Out in the garden, make sure that the grass is kept short and keep an eye out for squirrels and rodents, as these can carry fleas too.

Removing fleas

If you suspect that the dog you are caring for has fleas, it is important that you consult the owners and start treatment as soon as possible as fleas can quickly become a problem. Using flea shampoo is a good option. Once you have given the dog a bath, comb through his fur using a fine-tooth comb. If you remove any fleas, you should eliminate these immediately, as they can jump. You can make a basic flea spray by mixing equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar – this can be used to also repel the fleas.

Summary – Flea control for dogs

When you are responsible for a dog, you will need to keep an eye out for fleas. Use preventative measures. Protect your pet with whatever system works for you, and keep the house clean. Remember to maintain the regular routines for flea treatments and treat any flea problems quickly

FURTHER READING ON PETS AND PET SITTING

Does having pets at home attract pests? 

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Prepare your home for the petsitters

What to look for in an ideal petsitter

Shedding pets – Top tips for cleaning up at home