Though only an itchy irritant to most adult dogs, fleas can be a deadly threat to small puppies. Even a moderate flea population can create life threatening anemia for a tiny pup. Pale gums are a sign of anemia cause by the blood-sucking parasites. Small pups cannot remain healthy if they are infested with fleas.
Commercially available flea medicines for dogs often have warning about using the product on pups less than eight weeks of age. Capstar is an exception as it can be used as early as four weeks. Though it kills all adult fleas on the dog, Capstar does not kill flea larvae or eggs. However, killing the biting fleas on a pup with a one time dose of Capstar allows the owner to them remove flea eggs by frequent bathing of the animal.
Bathing is the best flea control for very young puppies. A small amount of Dawn dish liquid or any other mild soap will kill fleas. It is not necessary nor recommended that commercial flea shampoos be used on very young dogs.
By bathing the pup and then combing with a fine-toothed flea comb, the owner can kill biting fleas and also remove flea detritus. The area where puppies are kept must also be treated and bedding washing in hot water frequently. Fleas can survive immersion into water but the dish soap allows water to overcome the flea’s defenses.
Mixing 50% water with 50% Dawn liquid is the preferred method for keeping puppies flea free. Apply first on the dog’s neck all the way around the neckline to keep fleas from fleeing to the puppy’s face and ears. Then apply the mixture along the dog’s spine and wet the animal with a gentle spray of warm water to create a lather. Massage gently for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
Mixing the water and dish soap is the key to killing the fleas. Avoid wetting the pup before applying the mixture to prevent giving the fleas time to protect themselves from water.
Once your pet is two months old you can start him on what will be a lifetime regimen of protection against fleas. A monthly application of topical flea drops will kill any fleas that jump on the pet out of doors and will keep those fleas from making a home in your carpet and furniture, too.
Fleas multiply rapidly and are amazingly adaptive. They create new generations of fleas so rapidly that in a years time it’s possible for fleas in your location to become resistant to the flea drops you are using. By changing brands from Advantage to Frontline Plus to Revolution or k9 Advantix once a year you will keep the fleas confused and they won’t have a chance to fight back against your flea medicine for dogs.
Find Capstar flea medicine at http://www.petscriptsdirect.com . Buy direct from a veterinarian at low prices for flea medicines for dogs that can be safely used on young puppies.
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