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Dog has fleas after bath & treatment. Is it working? Can I reapply?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 months old | 5 lbs

I applied revolution flea treatment about an hour after a bath, not realizing I should have waited to bathe him. I still see some fleas a day later, is the treatment still going to work? If not, can I apply the next dose early? Thanks!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 1st, 2020

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It should be ok as long as you applied to topical after the bath. If the fleas are slow moving it is likely the treatment is working. There are still fleas in the environment that have to get on the pet in order to die. Continue the treatment every 4 weeks for 3-4 doses. You can apply after 3 weeks if you are still seeing live fleas. Also remember to treat all pets in the home. Kisses to Charlie!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on June 28th, 2020

    Revolution is a really good product. The fleas still have to jump on to be exposed to the pesticide and to die. So seeing an occasional flea isn't a concern. If there is a flea infestation, it can take several months of consistently treating all pets in the area and the home/yard itself to decrease the flea population.

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