Do Dog Fleas Pose a Bite Risk to Humans? Protecting Your Family

Fleas are a nuisance to more than just your dog. These tiny bloodsuckers won't hesitate to jump on you and take a bite if they get the opportunity. Although they won't take up residence on your body as they do dogs, they'll leave behind itchy red souvenirs of their brief visits. Treating a flea infestation at the first sign can help reduce the chances that you'll be bitten and will give your pet relief before the problem grows.

Pets and can pass some diseases to people. These are called zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases include such illnesses as Lyme disease, rabies and the plague. Although flea bites are something people and pets can share, the problem doesn't qualify as a zoonotic disease since an illness isn't passed from your pet to you.

Get rid of fleas

Fleas travel with their host — your dog — which means anything that comes in contact with your dog is probably flea-infested. If your dog sleeps with you or snuggles up next to you on the couch, fleas won't hesitate to make the short jump from your dog's body to yours.

To prevent becoming a meal for fleas, wash everything you can wash, and vacuum thoroughly. During an infestation, comb your dog several times every day to remove fleas. Flea dips, sprays, powders, and shampoos also can be helpful in removing fleas from your dog's fur. Apply outdoor flea sprays to your yard to kill fleas and flea larvae.

Flea spray for house

There are many different types of flea spray for house use, but use caution spraying them in the home or on your pets. Remember, they are pesticides. Don't use flea dip or spray on puppies or on dogs who are pregnant or nursing puppies, as the dip can be toxic to these dogs. Avoid touching your pet until the flea preparation dries completely.

Flea sprays and foggers can kill fleas quickly in your home, but you must use these products cautiously. Keep pets and people out of your home for the prescribed waiting period when you use a spray or fogger. Some products can cause allergic reactions in people with asthma.