Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites that live and feed off the blood of animals. They can be found all over the world, but they are most common in warm climates. The dog fleas make the dog’s skin itchy. It also causes irritation to your dog’s eyes, nose, mouth, and stomach. This is because the fleas bite the dog’s skin when they suck their blood.
How dogs are infected with fleas?
The first way a dog gets fleas is by being bitten by an insect called a Cimex or Pulex species (Cimex spp.). These insects are commonly known as bedbugs. Bedbugs are small, flat-bodied bugs that look like flattened wasps. They have long legs and antennae. They are about 1/4 inch long and brownish-red in color.
Contents
Dog flea medicines available in the market
There are several types of flea medicine available in the market. Some of them include:
1) Frontline Plus®
Frontline Plus® is one of the best flea medicine available in the market. It contains permethrin which kills both adult and larval fleas. It has been proven effective against various stages of the life cycle of fleas. It works well against all kinds of fleas including cat fleas and dog fleas.
2) Advantage Multi®
Advantage Multi® is another popular flea medicine. It is recommended for use on puppies and kittens up to 12 weeks old. It helps control fleas for 3 months after the last treatment. It is not suitable for pregnant or nursing mothers.
3) Advantix®
Advantix® is a combination of two different active ingredients. It includes imidacloprid and permethrin. Imidacloprid is a type of neurotoxin that affects the nervous system of fleas. Permethrin is a chemical that prevents fleas from feeding on the animal. It is used to kill fleas before they hatch.
Advantix kills adult fleas for up to 12 weeks after treatment, but it does not prevent eggs from hatching. This means that if you use Advantix®, your pet will still be exposed to flea larvae. If you want to protect your pets from fleas during pregnancy, you should consult your veterinarian.
4) Advantage® Spot On
This product is a spot-on flea medicine that treats only the problem area. It does not cause any side effects. It is safe for cats and dogs.
The active ingredient in this product is fipronil, which is an insecticide. This product works by killing the fleas on your pet’s skin. The fleas are killed when they come into contact with the insecticide.
5) Advantage® Pour-On
This product is a pour-on flea medicine. It comes in a spray bottle. It can be applied directly into the coat without rinsing. It is very easy to apply. It kills fleas and ticks on contact, but it does not kill eggs or larvae. You should repeat the application at least once every month. The active ingredient is fipronil.
6) Advantage® Spray-On
This product is similar to Advantage® Pour-On. However, it comes in a pump sprayer.
Advantage® Spray On is a product that can be used for the same purpose: to control ticks and other pests on dogs and cats. Both of these products contain pyrethrin, an insecticide that kills insects
7) Advantage® Shampoo
This shampoo is made using natural herbs and essential oils. It is designed to treat fleas, ticks, and mites. It cleanses the hair and scalp. It also removes dirt and debris from the coat.
It has a mild scent that does not linger on the skin or in the environment for long. The product is suitable for all breeds of cats. The shampoo comes with a bottle that holds enough liquid to last you for up to six
8) Advantage® Dry Dog Food
This dry food is specially formulated to help prevent fleas. It is made using fresh meat, vegetables, fruits, and grains. It is rich in vitamins and minerals.
It contains a high level of protein, which helps the dog to develop strong muscles. This product also has an excellent smell that will attract your dog’s attention.
Is a prescription needed for dog flea medicines?
Flea medicines are available over the counter (OTC). They do not require a doctor’s prescription. But there are some precautions you must take while buying OTC flea medicines.
1) Read the label carefully. Make sure you know what each ingredient is.
2) Keep the container away from children and pets. Do not give the medication to anyone under the age of 3 years old.
3) Use the recommended dosage. Never exceed the recommended dose.
4) Consult your vet before giving the medication to your dog.
Conclusion
There are many different types of flea medications for dogs. Some of them are prescribed by veterinarians, while others are sold over the counter. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages.
If you have a cat or dog, then you need to keep them protected against fleas. There are many different types of flea treatments available. Some of them are available over the counter; others require a prescription. Before choosing one, make sure you read the instructions thoroughly. Also, consult your veterinarian about the best treatment.
