Q:  I found fleas on my dog this morning.  I’ve never had a problem before.  I used Frontline for ticks this spring but stopped in July.  Will Frontline work for fleas?

 
A:  Fleas usually not much of a problem in Northern Wisconsin, but certain years seem to be worse than others, and this year has been a bad one.

Fleas live outdoors in the summer just fine, feeding on rabbits, squirrels and chipmunks.  As the weather cools, they will hop on your pet and move into your house.  The numbers will increase quickly, and your pet will start to exhibit symptoms of itching and skin infection.  Dogs will exhibit a classic rump and lower back dermatitis, and cats will have a more generalized skin inflammation.

Once established in your house, treatment must be aimed at both the pet and the environment.  My recommendation for pet treatment is Frontline because it is safe for your pet and your family.  For your house I would suggest a premise spray with an insect growth regulator.  The rooms can be treated one at a time and you don’t have to leave the house.

Fleas can also bite humans, although they prefer dogs and cats if available.  Look for bites just above the sock line on your lower legs.

Fleas have a larva, cocoon and adult stage, so treatment of the home rarely results in a sudden cure.  You may be seeing new flea hatches for the next three to four weeks.