Dog fleas are one of the most common parasites, rare will be that if you have a dog for a long time you have never had one. But just because they're frequent doesn't mean they're not dangerous and we shouldn't prevent them, because they can give our pets a lot of trouble. These are the diseases that transmit fleas to dogs.
Diseases that transmit fleas to dogs
The bite of a flea would not be more dangerous if it were just that, a bite. The problem is that this parasite, in addition to feeding on the blood of other living beings, has the ability to transmit diseases, since they are carriers of malignant microorganisms.
Some of the diseases that transmit fleas to dogs are:
Tapeworm: The tapeworm is a flatworm that settles in the intestines and can pass there years, growing and growing. Some species of tapeworm can be transmitted by fleas, as they ingest their eggs, which pass to the dog if they accidentally swallow a flea.
Mycoplasmosis: This disease is transmitted by fleas and caused by bacteria; can affect dogs and cats. This disease affects the reproductive organs and causes infertility.
Bubonic plague: This disease is transmitted by fleas that have parasitized in rats, but it does not occur in all parts of the world, only in some areas of Asia, Africa and South America.
Murine typhus: present in the fleas of the cat and rat. It is present in underdeveloped areas and with poor hygienic resources.
Also, keep in mind that these fleas, even if they have a preference for dogs and cats, can also bite humans if needed. And they can also transmit to us some diseases of the above!
Symptoms of fleas in dogs
These diseases that transmit fleas to dogs are a risk, but they are not the only problem they can cause. Although they do not transmit any of them, a dog that has fleas will show the following symptoms:
Itching: Fleas bite the dog to feed on its blood, causing skin irritation. In addition, it can redden and even lose hair in the affected area.
Allergies: there are dogs that have hypersensitivity to flea bite, which causes symptoms to worsen, and can develop dermatitis.
Anemia: In cases of massive flea infestations, the dog may suffer anemia from blood loss.
Nerves: Mood swings, anxiety and general nervous behavior are normal due to flea discomfort.
If your dog shows these symptoms, you should check for fleas, ticks, or other parasites! In addition, fleas can affect other animals, such as cats, rabbits, mice and humans.
Watch out for fleas! Delight your dog whenever appropriate to keep it protected.