bathing

Question
We have a about 10 year old border collie mix who has a hard time with fleas extreme this time of year. In the past  he has come back from the groomers looking good but in a short time is scratching himself untill his hindquarters are red and raw. Is there something that can be done to help with this and the fleas. we us a good flea medication once a month.

Answer
Hello Jack,

I just wrote an article about fleas, yes they are bad and very hard to get rid of once they are in your house. http://spottsdogcare.blogspot.com/
Topical flea treatments do work but they are more of a dog treatment, meaning your house and yard has fleas too.  You need to vacuum daily and clean all area of the home where your dog occupies. The yard needs to be treated as well.  There are products you can purchase at home stores like Lowe's and Home Depot.  They also sell the flea bombs that you set off.  The thing about those is you need to vacate for at least 2 hours while they is working.  Bathe your dog again before entering back into the home.

As for your dog, try to keep the area clean where he has scratch himself. Putting an antibiotic ointment will help.  Neosporin is a great one and even if he licks it off it's OK.

Good luck and I hope you get this under control fast.
Sincerely,
Susan Potts,CPG
www.spottsgrooming.com
www.pipschoice.com
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