Many dogs are plagued with skin parasites including fleas, which often results in a variety of skin and immune symptoms. Before we learn how to deal with fleas however, it is very important to realize that parasites are attracted to those animals that have a compromised immune system or damaged skin, damage which is not always apparent to the human. Immune compromised dogs, for example, are the ones most likely to suffer allergic reactions to flea bites. Flea allergy dermatitis, caused by a sensitivity to flea saliva, is a very common skin condition in dogs.
A Flea’s Life Cycle
Adult fleas live on dogs and cats but they only live for 4 days if they lose their host. Once the female flea feeds on blood she will breed and lay eggs which then drop off the host and into the surrounding environment. All of the eggs and larvae live and then hatch out in a few days on the bedding, carpeting, or outdoors preferring warm, humid or shaded areas outside. The typical life cycle from egg to adult can be anywhere from 1 to 8 months depending on the temperature or the amount of food available. The flea population consists of 50% eggs, 35% larvae, 10% pupae – all of which live in the environment - and 5% adults all of which live on the dogs. Dogs living in warmer climates have more of a problem with fleas than those living in colder climates. Once the temperature falls below freezing for several days in a row, adult fleas outside will die but the larvae will not. And of course, freezing temperatures have no effect on indoor fleas, or their larvae.
Symptoms
Fleas survive by biting into the skin and feeding on the blood of its host which causes the dogs to itch and scratch. At the same time the flea’s saliva comes into contact with the blood which is what causes the allergy reactions in sensitive pets. Pets with actual flea allergies will react with more intense scratching over the entire body, biting at the tail, red and inflamed skin, and some hair loss.
Prevent & Treat Fleas On Your Dog
No matter how healthy your dog is, an infested environment inside the house will make it very difficult to keep the dog parasite-free. To prevent infestations and to control the reproduction of fleas all of the bedding must be cleaned or washed daily. The surrounding area should be vacuumed twice daily until there are no longer signs of any parasites on the pet. Then apply a few drops of essential oils on the bedding and flooring to discourage the flea life cycle. Oils of peppermint, cedarwood, orange, or pennyroyal are effective however they should be diluted and never used full strength. Diluted essential oils can also be used directly on the dogs (not cats) to prevent fleas from jumping on board but should be used with caution; remember a dog’s sense of smell can be a thousand or more times more sensitive than a human’s.
The best prevention and treatment for fleas however is resistance. Dogs with a strong immune system, a good diet, and healthy undamaged skin are much less likely to attract parasites of any kind.
Diet
- Eliminate wheat, corn gluten, dairy products, soy products, rancid or GMO oils, canola oil, and all known food allergies and intolerances.
- Eliminate beef and red meat, and feed organic poultry, eggs, and salmon.
- Feed home-made meals as often as possible with home-cooked or raw meat, healthy whole grains and vegetables.
Recommended Remedies & Supplements
An herbal blend for all skin conditions. Supports healthy skin and immunity. Focuses on internal health as well as dermal health. Maintains skin health in pets with rashes, bumps, itching, hot spots, and other irritations
An antioxidant that supports the immune system and liver health. Maintains healthy adrenal function and joint mobility. Kidney cleanser.
An herbal blend to support the immune system. Maintains healthy skin, a healthy respiratory system, and liver function. Promotes healthy energy levels. Use for all immune conditions, unhealthy skin, and general unwellness.
An herbal topical blend of tea tree oil and goldenseal emulsified in olive oil to support healthy skin for dogs. Convenient spray bottle.
For extensive information on diet, nutrition, meal ideas, and healing dogs naturally, Order a copy of Healing Dogs Their Way.
