Fleas and Ticks

I love parasitic creatures just as much as the next person, but sometimes they just get out of control.  This particular season, they're awful.  Somehow, though, I feel like I say that every year...  Well, this time they are just an abomination.  September through November is typically the worst time for these little critters, so don't feel ashamed if you haven't completely eradicated them from your household.  I spend quite a bit of cash on flea medication, and Frankie and Ollie seem just as itchy as ever.  Hopefully with some helpful advice, you will be able to battle beside me on the forefront of this pestilence war.

Buzzle.com

Most people know if they have a flea problem, but here are some giveaways for those that are unsure:

• Scratching or generally uncomfortable movement (re-situating themselves constantly)
• Black or brown "dirt" on their fur--even if you don't see actual fleas, their poop is a clear indication that they are still hiding somewhere
• Check their armpits and private area--they will be where there is less hair 

Got 'em?  As long as they aren't jumping on you, the problem may be easily curable.  My highest suggestion is ordering a spot-on treatment such as Frontline.  It may seem expensive, but the three-month supply will be worth it to everyone.  You can usually find is cheapest on PedMeds (and you can buy it bulk which is cheaper still).  I also recommend using more than one flea medicine at a time, but no more than two.  As a supplement, I also use a topical spray once every two weeks.

A little bit about spot-on treatments.  I truly believe they are the best avenue in flea killing, but it's also important to know how it works.  "When you apply [a spot-on treatment], fipronil, the active ingredient, is stored in the oil glands under your pet's skin. It is then distributed continuously to the skin and hair of your pet through the hair follicles"  (Frontline Official Webpage).  Because that it relies on the oil in your pet's skin, you must never bath him two days before or after applying the product.  Use a soap-free shampoo, as this will keep the skin from drying out too much.  It also helps to feed them food high in fatty acids (remember that post?) to keep their coat slick and their skin moisturized.  If you don't follow the directions carefully, it may not work at all.  Here's a great page from Frontline's website that show exactly how to apply it or any other spot-on. 

I'll come out when all of the fleas are gone from the world.

 If your problem is completely out of control, you have to attack from all sides.  If you follow these procedures as often as necessary, there should be fleas no more within a few months:

1. Treat your yard.  I would suggest granules, and sprinkling them all around the edge of your house, your property line and every where in between.  It's also a good idea to do this before it rains so you won't have to water it yourself.
2. Treat your house.  Use a fogger or heavy-duty upholstery spray.  Spray all furniture, carpet and baseboards of your walls.  Make sure you vacuum before and after this.  Wash all of you and your pet's bedding, too.
3. Treat your animals.  Use a spot-on treatment as described above.  Make sure your pet is treated throughout all of this process or they will just jump on him rather than die in the pit of flea-death.

As you may notice, it gets fairly pricey the more situation gets out of control.  Preventative measure will always save you money in the long run, so maybe you will be more understanding the next time the vet tries to talk you into flea medication.