Maltese puppy has a rash, scabs, and dirt on his back. Is it fleas?

Question

My 10 month old Maltese has a rash on lower back. He also has scabs on his lower back. It's red and it looks like dirt around the redness. I have pictures. When I first got him I would bathe him once every week. He had a flea problem so I would add drops of Dawn soap to kill the fleas and I did use a special soap for the fleas as well. I stopped bathing him often, switched his food to Royal Cainane. I don't know what else to do. Please help. Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 10 days old | 4 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Using Dawn soap or a flea soap will not prevent fleas from occurring, and if Bruce isn't on a monthly prevention, this rash is likely cause by fleas. The dirt you are seeing could be flea dirt, which is essentially flea poop. I would put Bruce on a month flea prevention program. First, I would give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home.

Maltese puppy has a rash, scabs, and dirt on his back. Is it fleas?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share