Stop the Itch: What You Need to Know About Fleas
We’ve all been there—your dog starts scratching more than usual, and you wonder if it’s allergies or something worse. Most of the time, it’s fleas. And in South Louisiana, where the climate favors them year-round, prevention is absolutely key.
Maybe you missed a dose of flea prevention, or you’ve spotted what looks like flea dirt. Either way, don’t stress—we’re here to help. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we’ve answered the most common questions we get from dog owners to help you get ahead of the itch and protect your pet.
How Do Dogs Get Fleas?
Fleas can hitch a ride from almost anywhere—grooming appointments, dog parks, boarding facilities, even a visit to a friend’s home. Once a flea finds its way onto your dog, it doesn’t take long for things to escalate if your pet isn’t protected.
We also occasionally see ticks, especially in dogs that explore grassy areas, wooded spots, or fields. While less common than fleas, it’s always good to stay aware—especially if your dog loves the outdoors.
Can Fleas Spread to My Home and Family?
Yes, they can. Only a small percentage of fleas live on your dog. The majority are hiding in your home—carpets, bedding, furniture, and more. Fleas multiply fast, and once they’re in, it can be tough to clear them out without proper treatment. That’s why consistent prevention is so important.
But My Dog Is Mostly Indoors—Do They Still Need Prevention?
Absolutely. Even indoor dogs go outside to potty or take walks. Fleas can also be carried in on people, other pets, or found on porches and decks. We’ve treated plenty of indoor dogs here with flea infestations. Staying on prevention is the best way to avoid the stress of treating your pet—and your home.
What Health Issues Can Fleas Cause?
Fleas are more than just annoying. They can cause intense itching, skin infections, and allergic reactions. In more severe cases, especially in puppies, heavy infestations can lead to anemia due to blood loss. Keeping your pet flea-free is essential to their comfort and health.
What Flea Preventives Do You Recommend?
At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we offer safe, vet-approved preventives:
Bravecto: is a prescription flea and tick preventive that comes as a flavored chewable tablet. One dose provides up to 12 weeks of protection, making it a convenient long-lasting option for busy pet owners. We also offer the one month Bravecto. It starts killing fleas within 2 hours and controls multiple tick species. It's ideal for dogs who swim or bathe often, since the oral version isn’t affected by water. Bravecto is safe for dogs 6 months and older, and is often recommended for its extended coverage and fast-acting relief.
Simparica Trio: is an all-in-one monthly chewable that protects dogs against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites. It kills fleas fast, prevents reinfestation, and covers five common tick species. It’s a great option if your dog needs heartworm prevention in addition to flea and tick control, since it combines everything into one easy dose.
We can help determine if Bravecto is the right fit for your dog based on their lifestyle and health needs.
Why Choose Veterinary Flea Prevention Over Store-Bought?
The preventives we carry are FDA-approved, proven to work, and far less likely to have issues with resistance. Over-the-counter products can be hit or miss, and some may not be safe. When you get flea prevention through us, we know exactly what your pet is taking—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Fleas?
You might see fleas crawling through your dog’s coat—but more often, you’ll see “flea dirt,” which looks like black pepper flakes. A simple test: wipe it with a damp paper towel. If it turns red, it’s flea waste, and your dog likely has fleas.
What Should I Do If I Spot Fleas?
Call us at (337) 893-8522. The sooner we start treatment, the better. We’ll help you get your dog relief fast and recommend the best prevention going forward to stop it from happening again.