What to Do If You Suspect Your Dog Has Fleas

Discovering fleas on your furry friend can be alarming — especially in Florida, where warm, humid conditions make fleas a year-round concern. If you think your dog might have fleas, it’s crucial to act quickly and safely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you manage the situation:

1. Confirm the Presence of Fleas Start by looking for tiny, dark-colored insects that move quickly through your pet’s fur — especially near the base of their tail or their stomach. You may also see small black particles, called “flea dirt”—this is a mixture of dried blood and waste from the fleas. If you’re unsure, comb your pet with a fine-toothed flea comb over a piece of white paper; the comb may dislodge some fleas or debris that can aid in identification.

2. Contact Your Veterinarian If you discover fleas or even suspect their presence, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance. They can prescribe effective treatments to eradicate the fleas safely and advise you on prevention for your home and other pets.

3. Treat Your Home and Yard Fleas can reside not only on your pets but in carpets, furniture, and grass. Washing pet bedding in warm water, vacuuming carpets and furniture thoroughly, and employing a yard treatment can aid in removing them from your environment.

4. Implement Prevention Measures To avoid future infestations, consider a year-round flea prevention regimen for your pets. Topical treatments, pills, or collars can aid in keeping fleas at bay. Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions and pay close attention to expiration dates and proper application methods.

Final Tip: Act promptly and follow these steps to protect both your furry friends and your home from a flea outbreak.