Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it normal for my dog to have a flea after monthly prevention?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I applied the monthly drops to my pet a week ago but my dog picked up a live flea outside.Is this normal?I vacuumed the whole carpet and went over him with a flea comb multiple times and found nothing.Is it normal to see a single flea from time to time as in the two years of having him this is the first time.Should I expect an infestation or more to come in from outside? Or will the fleas die after biting and I do not have to worry?Am I in the clear or what will happen if another one hops on him

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on March 14th, 2017

It might be a flea that jumped on him after the application, this can happen but if you find more than one and they are alive then the product you are using is likely not working and you need to change it to something else such as Bravecto, Advantage or Revolution.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 14th, 2017

    If it has been close to 4 weeks since the last application, you may see some stray fleas. Some preventatives also require a flea to bite your pet in order to get the preventative. Other preventatives, such as Advantix II, have a repellant effect in which only contact is required to be effective. If you saw one flea on your dog, there are likley more in the house. Wash all bedding and vacuum everywhere. Use an area treatment such as Knockout ES. If it is too soon to apply the next dose of preventative, check with your vet to see if you can apply it safely earlier.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My robo hamster is limp, bleeding, and collapsed. Is it wet tail?
Is your robo hamster dragging, collapsed, or showing blood? A Licensed Vet Tech offers urgent advice on these symptoms, including potential wet tail concerns.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored