Flea Allergies in Dogs and Cats
What is a flea allergy?
When a flea bites your dog, usually the dog's only reaction is minor irritation, sometimes without any itching. However, some dogs experience flea allergy. Now, it's not like the dog is actually allergic to the flea itself, the dog has an allergic reaction to the flea's saliva, and it's called flea-bite dermatitis.Allergy to flea's saliva often triggers an itching cycle so intense, that your dog may scratch or chew himself to the point of bleeding and/or removing large amounts of hair; that in turn will leave exposed sores that may be susceptible to other bacterial infections.
Now you may be wondering: How do I protect myself and my family from a flea infestation?
Flea Prevention
Controlling and eliminating an existing flea infestation requires a lot of time, effort and money. You will need to set up a system of pest control that is effective for flea control, be sure to cover these areas:- outdoor environment- Regular use of insect growth regulators/development inhibitors will reduce the risk of fleas becoming established in the indoor and outdoor environment.
- indoor environment- Use of pesticides in the form of carpet powders, foggers, or sprays. Wash your pet's bedding weekly and treat the area. Don't forget to also clean and treat your automobile, pet carrier, garage, basement or any other place your pet spends an appreciable length of time.
- your dog- Before they are allowed in their house or kennel areas, pets should be given a flea bath after they have been boarded, played with pets from other households, or visited places where other animals have been (e.g. dog parks). Flea repellents are also a cornerstone of prevention.
Flea Removal
To mechanically remove all stages of fleas, vacuum thoroughly, especially where your pet sleeps. You can also use pesticides for outdoor flea control, fleas tend to like it where it is moist, warm, shady, and where there is organic debris. They will also tend to be where pets spend more of their outdoor time. So be sure to concentrate on areas such as patios, under porches, dog houses, etc.Maintenance for a Flea-free environment
Once you have eliminated your flea problem, set up a system to keep those fleas away! There are holistic solutions to prevent and control fleas and flea allergies.Holistic dog products present an option to traditional, and frequently, toxic treatments. However, that does not mean that you can use holistic products recklessly. You need to carefully read the labels, product descriptions, and method of use as well as dosage, and I recommend that you find and work with a holistic veterinarian in your area. Used properly, holistic dog products can improve the overall health of your dog, as the word implies "holistic" comes from "whole".
NOTE: It is very important that you NEVER use on you cat holistic products that have been formulated only for dogs.
Recommended product for flea-bite dermatitis:
© 2006. Mariangie Gonzalez has a major in Animal Science and runs the day-to-day operations of her home-based business and website www.MindBodyAndPaw.com. Visit to learn how holistic dog care products and homeopathic remedies could prolong and improve your dog's life.