As a dog owner, it can be concerning to see your pregnant dog scratching and biting at fleas. Fleas can be a serious issue for pregnant dogs, and it's essential to take control of the situation to keep your dog and her unborn puppies safe.
Fleas can transmit tapeworms and cause anemia in dogs, which can be particularly hazardous for a pregnant dog.
In fact, fleas can also trigger allergic reactions, which can lead to skin infections and more severe health issues.
To keep your pregnant dog flea-free, it's crucial to start with a thorough flea treatment.
Curious to learn more? Check out: How to Keep Fleas off Your Dog in Florida?
Flea Treatment for Pregnant Dogs
Flea treatment for pregnant dogs can be a challenge, but don't worry, there are safe and effective options available. Topical flea medications like Revolution are generally considered safe for pregnant dogs and can be prescribed by your vet.
Prescribed by vets, Revolution is a topical flea and heartworm medication that's considered a safe flea control for pregnant dogs. The medicine kicks in a couple of hours after it's been applied to the shoulder blades of your dog.
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Revolution was more than 90 percent effective against fleas 30 days after treatment, according to a 2013 study by the journal Parasites & Vectors. This means you can trust that it will keep your dog and her unborn puppies safe from fleas.
However, it's essential to note that over-the-counter flea medications, such as Advantage II and Frontline Plus, are also generally considered safe for pregnant dogs. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and consult with your vet before using any new medication.
If you have a nursing puppy, it's best to avoid using commercial flea treatment on your pet. Most pesticides are not safe for use on puppies less than eight weeks of age, so it's crucial to wait until they're old enough before using any flea control products.
Here are some strategies you can use to keep your dog and her puppies safe from fleas:
- Non-toxic diatomaceous earth (DE) can be spread in the carpets and flooring–vacuum up after three to five days.
- Use DE on your pet as a flea dust–just apply in a well ventilated area.
- Try parasitic nematodes in the yard. They prey on fleas at different stages of their development. Add more every three weeks.
- Daily cleaning is a must when using any flea control methods. Dust, vacuum, and mop.
- Try using a sheet over pet bedding and change out daily.
- Wash pet bedding and sheets in hot water with lavender or other flea fighting oils (rosemary, thyme, cedarwood) as this will help repel fleas further.
- Cedarwood chips inside pet beds and in the garden will repel fleas.
- Flea combs work great for dogs and puppies. Comb daily to remove fleas and flea dirt.
- Bathing a pup in mild baby shampoo or using a water dip helps–just make sure to dry the pups and prevent them from chilling.
Remember, it's always best to consult with your vet before using any new flea control methods, especially if you're pregnant dog is nursing puppies.
Removing Fleas Safely
Removing fleas safely from your pregnant dog requires careful consideration of the products you use. Generally, topical flea medications are acceptable treatments for pregnant dogs.
Topical flea medications, such as Revolution, are prescribed by vets and are considered a safe flea control for pregnant dogs. These medications kick in a couple of hours after they're applied to the shoulder blades of your dog.
Revolution is more than 90 percent effective against fleas 30 days after treatment, according to a 2013 study by the journal Parasites & Vectors. This makes it a reliable option for keeping your dog flea-free.
Over-the-counter flea medications, such as Advantage II and Frontline Plus, are also generally considered safe for pregnant dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flea treatment when pregnant?
Use flea treatment with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first 12 weeks when your baby's nervous system is developing. Consult a doctor or veterinarian for guidance on safe flea treatment options
Sources
- https://www.cuteness.com/article/treat-pregnant-dog-fleas
- https://www.dailypuppy.com/treat-pregnant-dog-fleas-1024.html
- https://www.arkanimals.com/flea-treatment-for-pregnant-dog-puppies/
- https://www.petlibrary.co.uk/how-do-i-safely-get-rid-of-fleas-on-my-pregnant-dog/
- https://mamcorescue.org/fleas-ticks-and-other-creepy-crawlies/
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