The flea treatment for dogs may be made up of various topical solutions, sprays or drugs that will aim at killing the parasites and eliminate the eggs that are left behind. In dogs with sensitive skin, the treatment may be more difficult, as the dog may not tolerate some of the commercial topical treatments.
Products to Avoid
There are numerous powders, dips, sprays and shampoos that may be used as flea repellents in dogs that are affected by this parasite.
However, most of these products contain chemicals and some of these chemicals may cause allergic reactions in more sensitive dogs. If you know your dog has sensitive skin, you should consult your vet and perform a series of tests prior to choosing an anti flea product. The tests will determine if your dog is allergic to the chemicals in the products you want to opt for and will help you select a solution that will not irritate the dog’s skin.
Organic Flea Repellents
To be on the safe side, you can always opt for organic flea repellents, which are less likely to cause skin reactions in your sensitive pet.
When you read the labels of the products you are considering, look for water based solutions that contain natural pyrethins, which are known to eliminate fleas and other parasites. Being natural products, these will not irritate the skin.
There are also natural anti flea solutions that contain d-limonene citrus, which will kill fleas and flea eggs, leaving the dog’s skin healthy.
The organic solutions for fleas may be found in the form of powders, drugs, drops, sprays or shampoos. You should opt for the solution that will work best in your dog, but make sure not to use several solutions at once, as these may not work well together. Consult your vet prior to administering a solution.
Bear in mind that these solutions are milder than the commercial insecticides, so they will require a longer treatment (i.e. up to 3 weeks).
Skin Conditioners
To protect the skin after a flea infestation, it’s important to offer proper hydration, especially if your dog has dry and sensitive skin.
Choose skin conditioners that contain natural ingredients such as aloe, jojoba oil or lanolin, which will moisturize the skin and help it recover. Ideally, these conditioners should be included in the anti flea product that you choose.
Medication Treatment
In addition to the anti flea solutions, some vets may recommend some medication treatment in your pet, to prevent any skin reactions.
Most commonly, the vet will prescribe some steroids that will reduce the activity of the immune system, which is responsible for the skin reactions.
The steroid treatment should be maintained throughout the flea treatment and gradually discontinued as the fleas are eliminated. At the same time, a topical corticosteroid may also be indicated, as this will reduce the skin irritation.
Don’t forget to disinfect your house and yard, as the fleas may leave eggs in these areas and they can develop, affecting your dog.