Have you noticed that your dog seems to be itchy all over lately? The itchiness might be the result of him or her having fleas, and it is wise to make an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as you can. Discover below what you should know about having a dog that is infested with fleas.

What Are Fleas?

The reason your dog is itching so much is due to fleas being little pests that sucks blood. Fleas are able to fly, so it is possible that you will see them around your dog if you look closely. The pests also love crawling deep within a dog's hair to get to the skin, so a thorough inspection by a veterinarian is necessary. If prompt treatment is not done, your dog may begin losing a large amount of hair from scratching so severely. Failing to get your dog treated can lead to other problems that might include tapeworms, anemia or flea allergy dermatitis.

How Should a Dog Be Treated for Fleas?

Treating fleas can be done via products that are sold in general stores. However, it is wise to take your pet to a veterinarian for the best results because he or she will use potent products for faster treatment. The vet is likely to get rid of the fleas by dipping your dog's body in a solution that is potent enough to kill fleas immediately. Your dog will also be treated for any other conditions that the fleas may have caused (anemia). You should hire an exterminator to treat your house for fleas after your dog is treated, as well as invest in a flea collar to prevent the problem from occurring in the future.

How Much is Flea Treatment for a Dog?

The price to get your dog treated for fleas will depend on how they have affected his or her health, as well as the number of treatments that is necessary. You should expect to pay up to $200 plus per year to get your dog treated for fleas on a monthly basis. However, the price will depend on what kind of treatment is done. No matter what you end up having to pay, it is a worthy investment because your dog won't have to suffer through the symptoms caused by fleas again. Take your pet to a veterinarian, like those at Capitol Animal Clinic and other locations, so he or she can get relief from the itchiness caused by fleas!