Fleas and Ticks in Dogs: A Treatment and Prevention Guide
Flea and tick infestations are a common health problem that can have serious consequences. These parasites are responsible for transmitting numerous infectious diseases (Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis) and also pose a danger to humans.
1. Identify Flea and Tick Infestations
Early detection is crucial. Regularly inspect your dog's coat and skin.
Chips
- Signs: Excessive itching, irritated skin.
- Detection: The presence of flea droppings (small black specks) is a key indicator. When moistened, these droppings leave a reddish tint due to their high content of digested blood (Dryden et al., 2009).
Ticks
- Areas to inspect: Warm and protected areas such as the ears, armpits or interdigital spaces.
- Risk: Ticks attach themselves to feed on blood. They can transmit pathogens in just 24 to 48 hours . Ixodes ticks are the primary vectors of Lyme disease.
2. Treat Your Dog Against Fleas and Ticks
Immediate curative treatment is essential to eliminate the parasites.
Flea Treatment
- Flea baths : Effective at killing adult fleas. Shampoos containing fipronil or permethrin offer significant reduction in a single application.
- Topical treatments (pipettes): These work by interrupting the flea life cycle (adults, eggs, and larvae). They offer long-lasting protection (4 to 8 weeks).
- Antiparasitic tablets : Oral medications that act quickly (sometimes in less than 4 hours) against severe infestations.
Tick Removal
Use a tick hook or tweezers to remove them with a twisting motion. Improper removal (breaking off the head) can cause infection.
Always disinfect the area with an antiseptic after removal to limit the risk of disease transmission.
Photo source: Pixabay Erik_Karits
3. Treat the Environment for Complete Eradication
Parasites proliferate in the environment. A study (Cadiergues et al., 2011) demonstrated that 95% of fleas are found in the form of eggs, larvae or pupae in the house.
- House cleaning : Vacuum all surfaces (carpets, rugs) and immediately dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag.
- Washing textiles : Wash your dog's blankets, cushions and baskets at a high temperature (minimum 60°C).
- Environmental treatments : Use specific sprays or fumigators containing insect growth regulators (IGRs), such as methoprene, to prevent the development of larvae and eggs.
- Outdoors : Mow the lawn regularly and maintain the garden, as ticks thrive in tall grass.
4. Preventing Re-infestations of Fleas and Ticks
Prevention is essential for lasting protection (Fourie et al., 2015).
- Regular parasite control : Apply pipettes, collars or tablets as recommended by your veterinarian for continuous protection.
- Frequent inspections : Always check your dog's coat after walks, especially in **spring and fall**.
5. Natural Solutions (as a Supplement)
Natural alternatives can be used in addition to conventional treatments, but with caution.
- Apple cider vinegar : A diluted solution can be sprayed on the coat to make it less attractive to fleas.
- Essential oils : Lavender or geranium have repellent properties. Caution: some oils (like tea tree oil in high concentrations) can be toxic.
- Diatomaceous earth : Applied to carpets or resting areas, it mechanically dehydrates fleas and their larvae.
6. When to Consult a Veterinarian?
Despite your efforts, a consultation is necessary in the following cases:
- Signs of illness after a tick bite (fever, apathy, joint pain).
- In cases of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), which causes severe itching and secondary skin infections.
Photo source: pixabay mirkosajkov
Conclusion
Managing an infestation requires a methodical approach: curative treatments, regular preventative measures, and strict environmental hygiene. Remember that your veterinarian remains your best ally in ensuring your dog's health and well-being in the face of these parasites.