Flea and Tick Control for Dogs

Is your favourite canine constantly scratching? It may be time for some flea and tick control!  This area of veterinary medicine has rapidly developed, mostly due to the fact that fleas have become immune to a lot of the active ingredients.

Basic Tips

• Although harmless in most cases, flea and tick control products have been found to be harmful in certain situations. Read all directions carefully. If you have a young or old dog, a dog with special needs, or any doubts or questions, contact a veterinarian.
• Don't just target your dog. Chances are that if your dog has ticks or fleas, so does your house. You deserve to be itch free too! Make sure you stock up on a few products  that target your house.
• Research your product. Look for reviews and information on whatever product you are considering using. When in doubt, contact a veterinarian, of course.
• Cat lovers, beware! Many products that control fleas and ticks on dogs are extremely toxic to cats. Do not give any flea or tick control products to cats unless the package specifically states that it is made for cats. 
• If you have a puppy, make sure all products are puppy-friendly! 

Popular Flea and Tick Control Products

Preventative Products

Flea collars  are a common and simple way to prevent fleas from hopping on your pup. Make sure you change flea collars at least every three months. Not the best solution if your pooch has a huge flea problem. Flea collars are not water proof. Make sure the collar isn't on during bath time or when swimming. There is a slight odor that comes with flea collars, although most people do not notice the smell.

Flea and Tick Control Products for Your Home and Garden

Flea and Tick Proof Your Home and Garden
	Free your house and garden of fleas and ticks! Try flea repellent  for furniture  and other areas of the home. Use tick repellent  on your garden  and any other outdoor area.

Stop Ticks and Fleas from Returning

It is simple and easy to prevent pests from returning. Monthly treatments  come in both topical form (creams  and liquids  applied directly to the skin) and in pills.  Usually inexpensive, considering it only needs to be used once a month. Most products come with stickers  to put on your calendar so you don't forget when it's time for the next application or pill! Some pets are sensitive to ingredients in monthly treatments. Keep an eye on your pet and look out for any unusual signs. Always consult a veterinarian before beginning any treatment.

Products that Treat Fleas

Too Late to Fleas and Ticks?
	Does Fido already have fleas? Grab an anti-itch product for dogs  to prevent more issues. Dogs that scratch and bite constantly can break the skin and cause infections. Popular forms of anti-itch products for dogs: Anti-itch shampoo  Anti-itch cream  Anti-itch lotion  Anti-itch spray

Use a dog flea comb  to trap fleas in between the bristles. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the comb after ever "swipe" or "run through".

If your dog already has fleas, it's important to give him or her a thorough flea bath.  Use special dog flea shampoo.  Some of these products can dry out the skin and the hair, so you may want to follow the shampoo  with a hydrating conditioner for dogs.

External Links

• TulsaMasterGardeners.com-- Great tips for treating and preventing ticks and fleas.
• PetEducation.com-- Information on different active ingredients and products on the market.
• VetMedicine.About.com-- Thorough tips and info on flea and ticks on pets.
• DrsFosterSmith.com-- Comparison chart of top products.

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