Flea allergy dermatitis occurs as a result of flea bites and may develop in canines that are more sensitive. The flea allergy dermatitis will manifest through swelling, and will cause itchiness, so the dog will lick and chew the affected area. This will lead to additional irritation, which should be treated to prevent complications.
Detect Fleas
The flea allergy dermatitis may look like a skin rash or irritation and could be easily mistaken for one. You need to make sure the dog has fleas. The fleas may be detected as they are dark brown and you may notice when they move (jump). The fleas are more visible in dogs with light colored coats, but if your pet has darker coat, you may also notice the flea eggs, which are white and are glued to the dog’s hair. You may also test for fleas using some white paper towels. Apply these and if you will find blood on these, this means that your dog has fleas. The blood is actually the feces fleas produce, as they feed on the dog’s blood.
Your pet will be scratching fervently and may also have rashes.
You may also get a confirmation of the diagnosis from the vet.
Detect Affected Areas
You should spot all the areas affected by flea allergy dermatitis so you know where to apply the treatment. The areas you should be looking for will be red, swollen and irritated and there may be wounds. The dog may have dry skin in the area and hair loss may also be present.
Don’t forget to check in more hidden areas such as under the tail or in the ear area.
Get Treatment
You can treat flea allergy dermatitis at home; you will need a few things including a comb, a pair of scissors, cotton balls and a topical solution that contains antibiotics or steroids. You may get an over the counter topical solution.
Apply Treatment
- Before applying the treatment, bathe the dog using an anti flea shampoo.
- Then, brush your dog and isolate the areas that are affected by flea allergy dermatitis. Use the scissors to get rid of the hair covering the affected areas. This will allow the air to circulate in these areas and the wounds to heal faster.
- Apply the topical solution or a salve using a few cotton balls; the solution will relieve the itchiness and will also help heal the dermatitis. Make sure the dog doesn’t lick the ointment. Reapply the treatment on a daily basis.
If the condition doesn’t improve in 3 or 4 days, you will need to get veterinary help, as the dog may need antihistamines or oral steroids.
Eliminate Fleas
As part of the treatment, it is essential to eliminate the fleas; otherwise they will cause new rashes. There are numerous anti flea products including sprays, powders or shampoos.
You should also clean the dog’s area to remove the flea eggs and larvae. Use bleach and vacuum thoroughly every angle of your home.