Fleas are a ubiquitous threat to canines globally, tormenting your beloved four-legged family members with their insatiable appetite for blood. Pet owners everywhere strive to eliminate these pesky critters from the lives of their furry friends. Fortunately, there is an array of treatments ready and available for successful flea control and prevention! But how much does dog fleas treatment cost?
The cost of treating your dog for fleas will depend on many factors, such as the type of flea treatment you choose, the size and age of your dog, the severity of the infestation, and your location. In general, it can range from $20-$150.
Did you know: Fleas can jump up to 8 inches vertically and 13 inches horizontally, making them difficult to spot and capture.
What Are Fleas?
Fleas are small, dark-colored insects that measure about 2.5 to 3 millimeters in length. They feed on the blood of warm-blooded mammals. Adult fleas are the only stage of a flea’s life cycle that can bite humans and animals. Fleas also spread disease by carrying bacteria and viruses from one host animal to another.
Causes of Fleas in Dogs
Fleas on dogs can be caused by multiple factors, some of which are environmental. The most common causes of fleas in dogs are as follows:
- Fleas can easily infest a dog if it comes in contact with another animal that already has fleas, such as in the case of visiting a grooming facility, doggy daycare, or other areas where multiple pets are present.
- Mice and other rodents in the house can bring fleas with them.
- Fleas can also live on furniture and bedding where dogs commonly lie, continuing their life cycle on the pet’s body.
- Dog runs, kennels, and dog houses are also potential sources of fleas, as they can thrive in these environments.
- Fleas often begin with just one or two fleas that quickly multiply and spread throughout the home and even beyond, depending on how quickly it is addressed.
- Fleas are most commonly found in warm and humid climates but can survive any climate if they have a host to feed on.
Signs & Symptoms
Fleas can wreak havoc on your pup, leading to:
- Uncomfortable and restless.
- Hair loss and Pale gums.
- Intense itching and licking of the skin (pruritus).
- Rubbing and chewing at the skin.
- Scabbing or redness on the skin.
- Skin sores are caused by excessive itching or scratching.
- Flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) is an allergic reaction to flea saliva.
- Evidence of flea dirt (flea feces) on the skin, which looks like black or copper-colored specks that turn red when wet.
Treatment of Fleas in Dogs
Treating fleas on dogs requires a multi-pronged approach that includes killing adult fleas, eradicating the eggs and larvae, and preventing re-infestation.
- Your veterinarian can recommend topical treatments such as sprays, shampoos, collars, or oral medications that kill adult fleas quickly.
- These treatments may also include an insect growth regulator (IGR) that prevents the fleas from reproducing.
- Vacuuming and steam-cleaning carpets and furniture can help to eradicate flea eggs and larvae, as well as wash any pet bedding in hot water.
- The veterinarian may recommend a regimen of medication to alleviate skin irritation and reduce itching.
Cost of Treatment
Treatment of fleas on dogs costs depends on the type and severity of the infestation.
- Exterminating fleas will cost you a mere $300.
- Initial visits and treatment can cost $95.
- Post-treatment services cost $75.
- Punctual preventive measures, such as pet flea treatments, may range between $20-$150.
- Laundry and house cleaning can cost anywhere from $20-$200.
Prevention From Dog Fleas and Its Cost
A few simple steps can be taken to reduce the risk of a flea infestation:
- Vacuuming carpets, furniture, and pet bedding regularly.
- Washing pet bedding in hot water.
- Treating other pets in the house with flea-control products.
- Keeping your yard free of debris and grass clippings that could harbor fleas.
- Using preventative treatments such as spot-on products and oral medications.
- Regularly groom and brush your pet to remove any fleas or eggs that may be present.
- Keeping your yard free of standing water, as this is a breeding ground for fleas.
Cost of Prevention
The cost of prevention is typically fairly minimal, as most flea-control products are available over the counter.
- You can expect to pay anywhere from$30-$60 for a month’s supply of spot-on medication or oral chewable tablets.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Treating Your Dog for Fleas
The cost of treating a dog for fleas can vary depending on
- The severity of the infestation.
- Type of treatment needed.
- Any additional tests or treatments are required.
- Multiple treatments and medications will usually cost more than if it is just a mild case.
- Any specialized tests or treatments to address any underlying conditions that could be contributing to the flea infestation will also increase the cost.
Final Thoughts
Flea treatment for dogs is a multi-pronged approach that requires vigilance and consistent effort. It is important to act quickly when fleas are noticed, as they can multiply and spread quickly, leading to an infestation. Treatment may involve topical treatments such as sprays, shampoos, collars, or oral medications, as well as vacuuming and steam-cleaning carpets and furniture.
Prevention is key to avoiding fleas in the first place and can be done with a few simple steps, such as vacuuming and using preventative treatments such as spot-on products or oral medications.
