Introduction to Checking Your Pet for Fleas
Hello, I’m Doctor Mike. This is Tabitha, and this is Buddy. Fleas cause many problems in pets. Including allergic dermatitis, transmission of tape worms and even anemia in small pets. So if you live in an area where fleas are common, you’re going to want to check your pet on a routine basis, and we are going to show you how to do this.
Checking the Back and Tail Base
While fleas can be anywhere on the body, they tend to concentrate on the lower back and tail base. I like to start by separating the hair, and looking for pepper-like material.
Using a Flea Comb
Some pets have a thick or black hair-coat. That can make it difficult. In these cases, I like to use a flea comb. Here we just comb through the hair and look for fleas or flea dirt.
Is it Flea Dirt?
If you are not sure if it is flea dirt, put some on a wet paper towel, and the flea dirt will turn red and bleed into the paper towel.
If You Find Fleas
So that’s it, it’s easy to check your pet for fleas. I hope that this information was helpful, and thanks for watching.
Graphics: If you find fleas, it’s important to start a flea control program for your pet. See VetVid Episode 005 “Flea Allergy”. Ask your veterinarian about new oral flea control chewable tablets!