How to Tell if Your Dog Has Fleas

The presence of fleas on your dog is a serious health risk. However, an infestation is not always apparent and you may not be sure if your dog is carrying these bloodsucking pests. If you suspect fleas, there are several different ways that you can seek out, identify and destroy them in order to protect the health of your pet.

The presence of fleas and their bites will cause your dog to scratch and bite its skin throughout the day. Since fleas tend to gather at the base of the rump and around the ears, you will probably see your dog scratching and gnawing at these areas most often. If the flea issue is not identified right away, your dog might start to lose its hair as a result of constant scratching.

One sign that your dog has fleas is sudden changes in the skin. If your dog develops red, rough bumps at the base of the tail, belly or groin, then the presence of fleas is likely. This skin damage usually results in the dog licking or gnawing in order to get relief from the itching. If left untreated, the skin may become infected and lead to a more serious illness.

While flea feces cannot be seen with the naked eye, there is a test you can perform to see if it is present on your dog’s skin. Have your dog step onto a large white towel and then rub your hands vigorously through its fur. If you see black specks fall onto the towel, apply drops of water to them or spray them with a bottle mister. If the specks turn red, it is flea feces and a sure sign of their presence.

While fleas can be difficult to see, adults are visible and identifying them is not difficult. To find them, part your dog’s hair where it is the thinnest. If you see fast-moving pests that are small, brown and oval, these are adult fleas. Once you have confirmed their presence, you should begin treatment right away and contact your vet for advice.

When left unchecked, fleas can cause irreparable damage to your dog’s coat and skin and make life miserable for your best pal. They can also spread to other pets and even to humans, so it is best that they are identified and destroyed quickly. To find a dog clinic in San Jose that can treat your dog’s flea problem, visit this website.