Fleas Navidad!

Fleas are not just a seasonal issue for the warmer months but can actually be an all-year-round problem. In a previous blog post from the summer, we explain how fleas can be a nasty pest to deal with and the discomfort and health problems they can cause our pets. For more information on fleas and ticks follow this link What are Fleas and Ticks and How We Can Prevent Them. – The Innocent Hound.

Read on to find out why it’s just as important to be cautious of fleas in the autumn and winter months too.

Dormant fleas and infestations

Once laid, flea eggs can stay dormant for up to 5 months in harsher conditions such as colder temperatures and lower humidity, therefore, we may not know we have fleas in our homes, especially in carpeted floors. Which means when the temperature begins to drop for us around this time of year, we are more inclined to use our central heating to make our homes cosier and more comfortable for ourselves and our furry friends. Unfortunately, fleas love this too. Dormant flea eggs can hatch in as little as two days, when exposed to the right heat and humidity, which could quickly become a flea infestation in your home. Did you know that one flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day, and their typical lifespan is 14 days to a year… horrifying.

Harm that fleas can cause

Fleas are nasty little suckers, quite literally! They make themselves at home in your dogs’ warm fur close to their skin, and they feed on their blood by biting. These bites can cause discomfort, itchiness, irritation, blood loss, skin diseases, or can lead to further infection when scratched, and some dogs can have allergies to fleas as well.

Signs that your dog may have fleas:

• Pale gums
• Loss of fur
• Irritated skin or bites
• Visible fleas or dust on coat
• Excessive itching
• Thickened skin

Seek veterinary help if you suspect your dog to have fleas to discuss the right methods of treatment and preventatives.

Preventative measures from fleas

As fleas are picked up in the environment and can be passed from fur-to-fur from other dogs, it can be tricky to manage, but it can be prevented. Preventative measures for pest control are the most effective at reducing bites and irritation when kept on top of.

• Cleaning fluffy toys, beds, and blankets regularly
• Hoovering carpets and emptying the vacuum bag
• Using recommended flea treatments and flea collars
• Adding flea repelling ingredients into your dog’s diet

Natural Flea Repellent Treats – by The Innocent Hound

Bah humBUG!

Don’t let fleas suck the joy out of your pets’ Christmas this year. Our Natural Flea Repellent Treats | The Innocent Hound are a tasty way to keep those fleas at bay. Containing natural ingredients such as British beef, neem, and lemon balm, this is a great way to prevent and deter fleas and ticks whilst also supporting a raw diet and providing nutrients to promote a healthy skin and coat. We at Innocent Hound, recommend treating your dogs to our Natural Flea Repellent Treats daily, and throughout the year.

With thanks to Anna Blackburn