PET TALK: Getting rid of “flea dirt” – it's bath time!

I met “SweetP” three weeks ago and noticed this in her hair: (picture).  

Any guesses?

It’s called flea dirt in the vet field. It’s not dirt y’all; it’s flea defecation.

You, as a pet parent, are literally petting flea poop. Now that I’ve grossed you out, it’s now bath time. Get ready to get soaked – LOL!

To get this problem under control, you need to set up a pet bathing station in your yard, kitchen, or bathroom. 

Your pet station will include: a leash (for escape purposes), 3-4 towels to dry off, brush or comb, and sterile eye wash (in case you get soap in eyes).

Flush gently, like wearing contacts. Use a hair dryer for the ones that tolerate it, and a soothing pet shampoo.

You DO NOT have to use a flea shampoo.

You need to calm the skin down and will be applying a high-quality brand name OTC flea product or a veterinary prescribed product, after allotted time after bathing. 

You may be the cause of a chemical toxicity that has CNS (Central Nervous System) signs and could cause seizures if you overdo the use of flea products.

No Dawn dish soap! This strips the oil off your pet and will make the skin more irritated and red. We’re not cleaning up an oil spill.

Don’t use human grade shampoo – different pH and skin will dry out. 

You may use baby shampoo for kittens and puppies; soap won’t hurt the eyes.

I use an OTC shampoo that is safe for dogs and cats that was recommended by a DVM that contains Benzethonium Chloride, Ketoconazole, and Aloe Vera.

Time to bathe! – Charlotte