If your dog has fleas, here are the key steps to effectively treat and prevent further infestation:

Immediate Treatment for Your Dog

• Use a flea comb to remove fleas and flea dirt from your dog's coat. This is a good first step to physically reduce the flea load

• Give your dog a flea bath with a flea shampoo or a gentle alternative like oatmeal shampoo to kill fleas on contact. Use the flea comb during the bath for best results

• Apply flea treatments recommended by your veterinarian. These include:
  • Topical spot-on treatments applied to the skin, usually between the shoulder blades

* **Oral medications** (pills or chews) that kill fleas when they bite your dog. Examples include Bravecto, Credelio Quattro, and Simparica, which also protect against ticks and worms

* **Flea collars** that release insecticides over time for ongoing protection

Avoid using flea shampoo and topical treatments simultaneously or too close together to reduce risk of side effects

Environmental Control

• Vacuum your home thoroughly and frequently , especially carpets and pet bedding, to remove flea eggs, larvae, and adults

• Wash your dog’s bedding regularly in hot water to kill fleas and eggs

• Treat your yard and home environment with appropriate flea control products to prevent re-infestation

Ongoing Prevention

• Use year-round flea prevention products as recommended by your vet to keep fleas off your dog continuously, especially in warmer months when fleas are most active

• Regularly check your dog with a flea comb even if they are on preventive treatment to catch any fleas early

• Consider natural remedies like apple cider vinegar in drinking water or essential oils for flea prevention, but consult your vet first

When to See a Vet

• If your dog has heavy flea infestations causing anemia, skin infections, or if you suspect flea-borne diseases like tapeworms, consult your veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and treatment

By combining immediate flea removal, environmental cleaning, and consistent preventive treatments, you can effectively eliminate fleas from your dog and home and keep your pet comfortable and healthy