While most flea problem start in the summer, these problems don’t get really bad until September or October. Fleas are little heat seekers. As it starts getting cold outside, they will hop on the first warm body that goes by (including us humans) and ride on into the house. Once fleas get into the house, they can multiple 100 fold every 3-4 weeks. When it comes to fleas, prevention is the key to avoid expensive veterinary and exterminator bills.
With the myraid of flea preventative products out there, it can be very confusing as to what you should use. My favorite product this year is a less expensive spot on called Parastar Plus for dogs or Easy Spot for cats. If you are buying online or from big box stores, there is a huge problem with counterfeit products (especially Frontline and Advantage). You should either get these products directly from your veterinarian or visit our online store at whvh.com. There are a couple of relative expensive flea collars that also work and are relatively safe. Serestro is my favorite item in this group, though both skin and bowel problems have been noted in dogs while wearing these collars.
For those of you who prefer not to put something on the outside of your pet, there are several oral flea preventatives available. Nexgard and Bravecto are the ones that I most commonly recommend for dogs. My favorite is Bravecto due to the 12 week duration for dogs (the other only last 4 weeks). Comfortis is the only oral product that can be given to cats.
Lastly, if you are already having a flea problem, the sooner you start correct treatment, the better off both you and your pets will be. We are offering a special give away for people with flea problems whose pet(s) receive a comprehensive exam during the month of September 2016. Call us at 570-455-2580 for more details.