My dog has stubborn fleas, itching, and bald spots. How to treat?

Question

I have a great Pyrenees and can not rid of the fleas how can I get rid of them. It is like they won't get out of her coat she is itching her self bald in spots. Pet's info: Dog | Great Pyrenees | Female | spayed | 110 lbs

Jennifer Ladd, DVM · Accepted Answer

Sounds like she not only has fleas, but likely a flea allergy as well. Poor thing! Fleas can be very hard to get rid of as various life stages can remain present in the environment. Treatment focuses on several factors: 1) A good flea preventative such as Simparica or Trifexis. I prefer oral medications as they allow you to bathe your pet as necessary 2) Capstar- this will kill all fleas on your pup in a couple of hours, but has NO preventative quality 3) Cleaning of the enviroment- vacuum often. Wash bedding in hot water. Use a flea bomb in your home. It can take 3 months to truly eradicate them from your home 4) A medication to provide relief from itching. I prefer Cytopoint which is a once monthly injection that halts the inflammatory response in the body with very few side effects. Apoquel is an oral medication that is also a good choice. A low dose of a steroid is also an option, but has more side effects such as excessive drinking and urination. The key with fleas is to treat all of your animals,and your home concurrently. Be patient and persistent. I am sorry you are having to deal with this!

My dog has stubborn fleas, itching, and bald spots. How to treat?

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