Do my dogs have fleas?

Question

My dogs are covered in what I believe to be "flea dirt" but they're not scratching themselves or anything. They both get washed in a flea shampoo every 3 weeks. They dont spend too much time outside nor do they mix with other dogs. Could this still be fleas or anyone have another idea?

Yes I believe it is flea dirt cause when i put it on a piece of kitchen roll and wet it a bit it leave a dark red/brown colour

Sorry what I ment was I wash them every 3 weeks and use a flea shampoo every other wash. They been to the groomers and she couldn't see anything. Their Yorkies

Answer 1

It's flea dirt, as you now know. First sign that fleas are present.

Flea shampoos don't work! But you know that now. Don't let your groomer use those anymore because it's a waste of time - just have them use normal shampoo for dogs.

You need to get a proper flea treatment from a vets, a spot-on like Frontline. You have to wait 48 hours after the dogs have been bathed before you can apply it though, or it won't work.

Honestly, I can't believe the amount of groomers still trying to convince people flea shampoos work, how do they still get away with it?

Chalice

Answer 2

Flea dirt is very dark in color (it is nothing more than flea poop which is nothing more than blood, gross, I know!). Are you sure it is flea dirt and not flaky skin?

You should not be bathing your dogs every 3 weeks in flea shampoo, that is much too often and flea shampoo really drys out skin. That is why I am wondering if you are confusing flea dirt with dandruff?

Not all dogs that have fleas will scratch. I would recommend that you absolutely make sure you know what is going on with your dogs skin. It is important that you differentiate between fleas and a skin issue.

It would be impossible for anyone on here to tell you if your dog has fleas or not. I would bring your dogs into the vet for a quick peak. You are going to want a proper diagnosis so you can properly treat the issue at hand.

I wish you luck!

NOTE: OK, if you are positive it is flea dirt that does not mean your dog still has fleas, could be the aftermath. I would NOT bathe your dog in the harsh flea shampoo again. I would instead use a Joy (or Dawn) detergent and water bath. After wards, brush them really well. 24 hours later apply Frontline to prevent any further fleas.

Answer 3

Do you have any of that "flea dirt" in your home? If so,look closely at it look to see if it's moving.

If it is, then it's probably fleas and not dirt. To kill these or get them out use some non-toxic bug spray on your furniture. This shouldn't harm you or your dog.

If it isn't then i would suggest that you just suck it up with a vacuum and get all of it off.

If there's no dirt there than maybe get some off your dog and see if its moving (make sure you wash your hands after and before).

If that doesn't work than go to a local vet and ask them what to do.

If all that doesn't work i hope you find a better answer than me.

Answer 4

You should be able to see the fleas on your dogs belly when he rolls over for a scratch. Fleas 'hybernate' in the dirt surrounding your house in the cooler mths, you should use a liquid flea treatment that is applied to the back of your dogs neck, at least every 3 mths, depending on the brand. Using a shampoo is time wasting and chemically harmful to you and your pet if used too often.

Answer 5

We cannot tell for sure if your dog has a flea. The only way to confirm is to see the flea itself. Well, if you suspect it is a flea dirt try checking the mat or rag where your pet usually stays though fleas don't stray away from the host for a very long time but it can be a source of infestation. If you are still not sure probably you should already consult a vet....

Answer 6

I would check her fur for fleas. What ya could do is use front line the little drops on the neck as a preventative if your not sure. Just be careful and read instructions before using front line.

Answer 7

yes your dogs have flees. try to get a spray or flea dip called de flea it is put out by natural chemistry. if you cant find it call and orer a pet supply book called pet edge the phone number is 1-800-738-3343. or you can go on line at www.petedge.com in the book it is called the natural way.

Answer 8

You are washing your dog far too often they need a certain amount of grease in their coats every month - two months is fine I only wash mine once a year in the spring before his first deflea drops that you squirt on the skin at the back of neck

Answer 9

Try check through their fur. I would take them to your vets and they will get rid of anything.