Nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing a pup bite and scratch at fleas that won’t seem to go away. For pets with flea bite hypersensitivity and flea allergy dermatitis, the reactions can be worse. Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, OH, shares that this skin disease is actually one of the most common that they see among furry patients. Fortunately, they can normally provide relief with special dog medications intended to help soothe flea allergies and keep these pests at bay.

All it takes is one or two bites to get dogs scratching. Normally, pets are allergic to the flea’s saliva, which contains irritants that attack the immune system. The most obvious sign of hypersensitivity is severe itching and scratching of the skin, a condition medically referred to as pruritis. This can often result in hair loss, scabs, and lesions on the body, especially in the hindquarters where fleas tend to hide. Be on the lookout for licking, chewing, rubbing, and rolling, all of which can also be signs of intense irritation.

To check if fleas are causing your pup distress, use a flea comb to inspect their coat. If you see fleas, eggs, or flea dirt, take your furry friend to the vet for dog medication right away. The two most popular options for flea control and prevention are oral and topical treatments and products. Regardless of which you choose, a monthly treatment plan is necessary to provide relief for dogs suffering from flea allergies.

The top overall recommendation in flea prevention is an oral treatment, Bravecto. One chewable tablet lasts 12 weeks and kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of fleas and for the treatment and control of tick infestations.

The top topical treatment recommended by Liberty Veterinary Hospital is Vectra 3D. The active ingredients in this broad spectrum protection repels and kill fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting and sand flies, lice and mites (excluding mange mites). It kills adult fleas and prevents the development of all immature stages of fleas: eggs, larvae and pupae. This treatment is applied to the back of the neck to keep dogs from licking them off. DO NOT USE VECTRA 3D® ON CATS.

If you think your pet might be suffering from a flea allergy, bring them in to Liberty Veterinary Hospital for an evaluation. With convenient online veterinary pharmacy ordering and delivery services, finding the right dog medication for your pup has never been easier. This high-tech facility provides comprehensive pet care for the region’s furry friends, including dog grooming, pet surgery, animal vaccines, and dog training. For more information about the dog medications that they carry, visit their website or give them a call today at (513) 755-9700.