‘I’m a vet – do 1 thing at home immediately to prevent fleas on dogs’

With spring arriving in full force in the UK, dog owners across the country are dreading the arrival of one particular pest along with it.

Fleas, those blood-sucking parasites that make our beloved furry companions’ lives hell. While active throughout the year, April to September are the peak months for flea activity, especially in the UK, owing to the warming temperatures.

Fleas are small, wingless parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They are notorious for causing itching, irritation, and discomfort, and in some instances can result in more serious health problems for pets.

With one in four cats (28%) and one in seven dogs (14%) in the UK suffering from fleas, it’s become a necessity to understand how to combat these pesky little critters.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a vet’s advice for dog owners to prepare for flea season this spring, including one easy but often overlooked household task that can go miles in flea prevention in the home.

Dr Sarah Page-Jones, Head Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, has shared how pet owners can prepare for flea season and avoid a flea infestation when it comes to their beloved four-legged companions.

How to avoid fleas on pets this spring

Treat your home

This common household task is a simple yet effective way through which pet owners can avoid a flea infestion inside homes.

Dr Sarah explains: “Tackling your home environment is just as important as treating your pet. Fleas do not just live on animals; around 95% of a flea infestation exists in the home, in the form of eggs and pupae hidden in soft furnishings and textiles, like carpets and bedding.

“Regular hoovering, washing pet bedding at 60 degrees and using targeted home treatments can help remove fleas and their eggs, and reduce the chance of re-infestation.”

Flea preventatives

The vet surgeon has more tricks up her sleeve, as she shares: “Regular use of vet-approved flea treatments is one of the most effective ways to protect your pet over the long term. Treatments for both cats and dogs can help stop fleas before they become a bigger problem, reducing your pet’s discomfort and protecting your home and family, too.

“If you are unsure about which treatment is most appropriate for your pet, it is best to check first with your vet.”

Limit outdoor exposure

When it comes to flea prevention, the vet’s guidance is straightforward: “Fleas are often picked up in outdoor areas where they can easily thrive, such as long grass, shaded gardens, and wooded spots.

“While it is not always possible to avoid these spaces completely, being mindful of where your pet is spending time can help lower the risk of bringing fleas back into the home. If there are areas on your pet’s walk with particularly long grass, it would be wise to avoid these during peak season.”

Consistency

Dr Sarah shares: “Flea control is not a one-off fix. Ongoing prevention, regular treatment, and keeping your home environment clean are all key to keeping fleas under control.”

Consistency is key, and staying consistent as a pet owner is the ultimate way by which your pet can remain protected and you can prevent a miniscule issue from turning into a much larger infestation.

What to do if your pet has fleas

If your pet has fleas, it is imperative to act fast, says the vet surgeon, because fleas can result in intense itching, and, in some cases, more serious problems may develop if care is not taken, such as worms, anaemia in younger or more vulnerable animals, or a flea allergy.

The first step is to contact your vet, or alternatively, use a vet-recommended and licensed flea treatment that suits your pet. The safest and most effective flea prevention options will depend entirely on your pet’s species, age and health.

Dr Sarah warns: “It is also essential to treat all pets in the household, not just the one showing signs, because fleas can easily move between animals.”