The flea is a common problem for dogs as well as their owners. Fleas are so annoying. If you have ever had or currently have a pet with fleas - you know.
As if fleabites aren't bad enough, some pets are "flea allergic" and develop severe itching with even trivial infestations of fleas. This occurs because the animal becomes hypersensitive to the antigens in flea saliva. Typically, the hair at the base of the tail is usually affected but small scabs and redness are present all over the dog's body. The primary treatment of flea allergy dermatitis is to remove the existing fleas and prevent future flea bites. The itching component to a flea allergy can be treated with antihistamines or even steroids (prescribed by your veterinarian) but the best approach is to kill the flea and prevent its return.
Other, more serious problems can be associated with fleas. Tapeworms are a common parasite associated with fleas. Though not transmitted by bites, fleas cause tapeworm infestations when the dog grooms and ingests a flea carrying the tapeworm larva. After ingestion, the tapeworm larva continues to develop in the dog's gastrointestinal tract. When developed, the head of the tapeworm will attach to the intestinal wall and small egg filled segments periodically break off and are passed out the rectum. These segments are fed on by flea larva and the cycle continues. Though tapeworms do not usually result in illness in the dog, removal of the tapeworm is recommended.
Flea bite anemia occurs in severe flea infestations or in tiny puppies. When a flea bites, it feeds on blood. With many fleas feeding at the same time, significant blood loss can occur. If the fleas are allowed to remain on the dog, severe anemia can result. Blood transfusions, iron supplementation and hospitalization are frequently necessary. Some dogs may not survive flea bite anemia.
By learning the potential illnesses that can be caused by those little tiny bugs, you may now understand why there are so many flea products available. Not only is the flea a nuisance, it can also be life threatening. Like all parasites, fleas pose a health-hazard to your pet (and to you), and they can make your dog miserable - but they can be treated and prevented.
So how do you know if your pet has fleas? One sure sign is flea dirt. So, what is flea dirt? Flea dirt is not really "dirt" at all. It is the feces of the flea that can be found on pets. It appears as small black flecks. Its appearance is similar to fresh ground pepper. Flea dirt is the bowel movement of the flea, and since fleas bite your dog and eat the blood, the bowel movement primarily contains digested blood. Many dog owners never see the flea but they do find evidence of the flea, commonly referred to as "flea dirt".
Where can you find flea dirt on dogs? It is most easily seen in areas of thin or light colored hair or in areas where fleas are often concentrated. The dog's dorsal back, just in front of the tail, is a good spot to find flea dirt. You can also find flea dirt in your pet's bedding. You can sometimes place a dog on a white blanket, sheet or towel and pet him or her while watching for small black flakes to fall onto the white surface.
How can you tell if it is really flea dirt? When you think that you have found flea dirt, place it on a moistened paper towel. If it is really flea dirt, it will make reddish or brown spots when it softens. This will help you differentiate flea dirt from regular dirt specks.
What is the significance of flea dirt on dogs? If you find flea dirt, it means your dog has fleas. You may not see the fleas, as some dogs are very good at grooming and subsequently eating the fleas.
courtesy of PetPlace.com dog Lover
Grumps II
a.k.a don,
a.k.a Mr. Heather's dad
