How to Keep Your Dog from Bringing Insects Indoors
Bugs will use any means possible to get inside your home, even hitching a ride on Fido. Not only can this cause an infestation inside, but some insects like mosquitoes can pose serious health risks to pooches. As dog lovers and pest control experts we’d like to share a few of our best tips for keeping canines (and your home) bug-free.
Give Dogs Regular Flea Control Treatments
The first line of defense is a flea control treatment. One of the easiest and most effective treatment options is a monthly pill. Some medications like Trifexis prevent fleas, heartworms and intestinal worms. Typically, dogs as young as 8 weeks old can take the pills, which vary depending on the weight of the dog.
There are also gel flea treatments that are applied to the dog’s coat from the neck to the tail. They are effective, however they can be messy since they stay on the dog’s fur for several days.
A flea and tick spray can be applied to give your pets temporary relief. They use natural ingredients like cinnamon oil and lemongrass oil, which are known to repel bugs.
Get Rid of Insects with a Good Grooming
A good bath gets your dog’s coat glossy and knocks off any bugs that may be hiding in their fur. Use a shampoo that contains a flea treatment for an even greater bug-fighting benefit. Grooming your dog is a good practice in general – there are a number of health benefits to keeping your dog clean as well!
Use a brush or comb to groom your dog at least once a week. Giving them a quick brush before they come in each time is even better.
Keeping long-haired dogs shaved in the summer when bugs are at their worst makes it more difficult to hide. The downside is a close shave also makes it easier for bugs to bite on your (usually) furry friend. That said, the added relief of not being so hot typically makes it much more comfortable for the dog.
Does your dog like sporting a bandana? If so, spray the bandana with lemon or citronella to keep bugs well away. If you can’t find the scents to spray get an ExOfficio BugsAway bandana. They have an insect repellent built into the cloth that will last for up to 70 washes. Clothing options can also work to keep insects off your dog. During the summer only use loose cotton options to avoid overheating.
Watch Out for the Doggy Door
Doggy doors are convenient for your pet, but they can cause a lot of problems. For one, when your dog has access to come and go as they please it is hard to give them a once over before they come inside. Secondly, it gives insects and rodents a way to get in with or without the dog’s help.
One of the best solutions is to opt for a dog door that is controlled via a sensor. A small device can be put on your dog’s collar and when they get close enough to the door it will open. Just be careful not to let your dog hang out near the door without turning off the sensor. For security purposes you’ll also want to make sure any dog door you get can be locked when you’re not at home.
Did fleas, ticks or other bugs hitch a ride inside on your pooch? Give Vulcan Termite & Pest Control, Inc. a call. We can take care of your insect problem inside and out with a pest control treatment that’s safe for you and your pets.
Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/home-pest-control/keep-dog-bringing-insects-indoors/