By Dr. Steven Elwood, Veterinarian

Flea control is very important in the health and well being of your pet. Flea bites may irritate, infect and even induce an allergic reaction. The flea saliva contains a protein (hapten) which may trigger a severe itching reaction in some pets. (Sometimes nearly to the point of being bald.) Medical relief may be afforded to these pets, but flea depopulation and a basic understanding of the flea’s life cycle is in order.

Fleas may develop from egg to adult in as little as one month. They will go through four phases of development, egg, larva, pupae, and then adult. One female flea can lay hundreds of eggs per day. The pupae, or cocoon form, may lay dormant &8216;glued’ to a carpet fiber for months, only to hatch later. This is why flea problems can even arise in the middle of the winter. Regular vacuuming of the carpet and washing of the bedding and furniture covers may also be helpful in reducing the egg count. Premise sprays may be recommended if the infestation is severe enough.

Diagnosis of a flea infestation is aided by a flea comb (a very fine tooth comb). Dried blood (flea dirt) and even the live flea may be found. The base of the tail in dogs and the neck in a cat are common places to find evidence that your pet has a flea infestation. Applying the flea dirt to a moist paper towel and rubbing the flea dirt will result in the dirt changing to blood.

Marvelous advances have been made toward eliminating the flea problem your pet may have. Topical products like Frontline Plus is a liquid that is applied to the pets skin between the shoulder blades once per month. This is absorbed in the oil glands of the pet and will kill the flea when it gets onto your pet. The older organophosphate and carbamate chemicals that are sold over the counter such as, flea collars, dips, sprays, powders, and even some topicals are not as effective in eliminating the flea, as resistance has become a problem. These older products are absorbed into your pet’s body and are not as safe for your pet, compared to the newer products. Your pet should not have a bath for a few days before you put Frontline on and not for a few days after. Ask your veterinarian about the proper application process, and your pet can have a bath, or jump in the lake and you will not have to reapply the medication.

If your pet is having a reaction to the flea bites and is uncomfortable, your veterinarian can give your pet an injection of cortisone or an antihistamine to suppress the allergic response to the flea bite. Even these allergy medications have side effects and this should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Fleas can even be intermediate hosts of the tapeworm and their ingestion during grooming can lead to a tapeworm infestation. Tapeworms are commonly presented as small rice like segment by the rectum and treatment is only available through your veterinarian.

For your pet’s sake and your peace of mind, you’ll want to explore your options of the newest, safest, and most effective methods of parasite control with your veterinarian.