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Why is my dog scratching and licking, but I can't find any fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 22 lbs

My dog is 4 years oldm we had him castrated at 1 month old. the past 2 days he has been licking where his wound was, it has only just come on suddenly and he is also scratching himself a lot more. have checked him and my other dog and they have no fleas on them.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2019

Fleas live in the environment, not on the dog, so they could still have them even if you can't see them. I can give you a flea treatment program for both your dogs. First, I would give them 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 their 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.

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