How to Use a Flea Comb

One of the simplest ways to control fleas on your pet is to use a flea comb. Flea combs are a cheap and effective way to check whether your pet has fleas or to ensure that your chosen flea treatment is effective. If you don't have a flea comb, a child's nit comb will also do the job!

Using a flea comb couldn't be simpler. Read on to find out how to get rid of fleas using a flea comb:

Grab a flea comb and settle your dog comfortably near to a sink or basin of water.
It's really important to flea comb near to soapy water. The last thing you want to do is remove a flea from your pet only to see the flea hop off your comb and into your home. By dipping the comb in water, you will drown the flea as soon as it comes off your pet.
Gently run the flea comb through your pet in the direction of the fur. Pay particular attention to the base of the tail, armpits, groin area and ears. These are all flea 'hotspots' however that is not to say that you won't find a flea elsewhere on your pet so feel free to comb all over.
Dip the flea comb in water at regular intervals. Watch out for fleas (which are black)and wiil be trapped between the teeth of the comb. Make sure that any time you see a flea you submerge the flea comb in water so that the flea can't escape. Flea dirt looks like little black specks and is also an indication that your dog has fleas. If you are unsure whether a speck is flea dirt then put the speck onto a piece of damp tissue or kitchen towel. If you see a reddish/brown mark then you can be sure it is flea dirt. Flea dirt contains the blood that the flea has been consuming.

How often should I flea comb my dog?

If your dog has fleas then daily flea combing is essential. Otherwise flea comb weekly to ensure that your dog does not have fleas. During the Spring and Summer months, fleas are more prevalent so make weekly flea combing part of your routine. Don't forget that for every flea you find on your pet, there will be several more lurking in your home so persistance is required to get rid of them all!

Shop Flea Treatments

Natural Flea Treatments for Dogs

Flea combing alone may not be enough to get rid of fleas on your pet. Most people ultimately decide to also use a flea killer and repellent to control the problem. However it is not necessary to smother your dog in chemicals in order to get rid of fleas. There are many traditional herbs that have been used for centuries to control fleas. Look out for products that include herbs such as quassia, apple cider vinegar, fenugreek, mint, seaweed and lemon balm. All of which help to make your pet taste less delicious to fleas!

Diatomaceous earth (sold as Get Rid powder) is a natural substance made from the remains of microscopic algae. Harmless to pets and fatal to fleas, it is a well known way to kill fleas. Sprinkle over fur and even on household soft furnishings such as beds and carpets.