Dog scratching at fleas

Flea Control for Dogs: Tips From Dogology Grooming in Ann Arbor, MI

September 03, 20252 min read

Flea Control for Dogs: Tips From Dogology Grooming

Fleas are one of the most common issues we see as groomers, and they can make life miserable for both dogs and their families. At Dogology Grooming, we often notice the first signs of fleas during grooming sessions, which makes professional grooming an important part of your dog’s flea control plan. If you’re looking for effective flea prevention and treatment for dogs in Ann Arbor, here’s what you need to know.

A brown dog scratching his ear with a hind foot

Why Groomers Spot Fleas First

During grooming, we handle every inch of your dog’s coat and skin. That means we often see the earliest signs of a flea problem:

  • Flea dirt (tiny black specks that look like pepper)

  • Fleas moving quickly through the fur

  • Red, itchy skin or hot spots from flea bites

Regular grooming appointments at Dogology Grooming help catch fleas early—before they become a full-blown infestation.

The Importance of Year-Round Flea Prevention

Flea control isn’t just a summer issue. Fleas can survive indoors year-round, so staying on top of prevention is key. We recommend:

  • Veterinarian-approved flea treatments for dogs – Topical medications, oral tablets, or flea collars provide lasting protection.

  • Consistent prevention – Don’t skip doses, even in cooler months.

  • Routine grooming – Regular baths and brushing help keep your dog’s coat clean and make fleas easier to spot.

Is there any over-the counter relief for fleas?

While prescription flea control from the vet is always your best option, some over-the-counter options can also help in the meantime. Capstar pills will kill what is on the pet and provides about 24 hours of relief, which helps give you a head start on clean up efforts. Seresto collars (and ONLY Seresto brand!) actually do help keep your pet flea-free. But the most important thing is to keep the pet's environment clean and stay ahead of infestations! Once the fleas have arrived, you will likely need to provide multiple rounds of cleaning, bombing, and vacuuming your house over several weeks to kill the fleas at all stages of their lifecycle.

How Grooming Helps With Flea Control

While grooming alone won’t completely eliminate fleas, it’s an important part of the solution. At Dogology Grooming in Ann Arbor, we can:

  • Use pet-safe flea shampoos to help reduce flea discomfort.

  • Comb through your dog’s coat to remove flea dirt and debris.

  • Alert you if we see signs of fleas so you can follow up with your veterinarian for treatment.

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable and Flea-Free

Successful flea control for dogs in Ann Arbor is a team effort between pet owners, groomers, and veterinarians. By combining professional grooming, preventative flea treatments, and at-home care, your dog can stay itch-free, healthy, and happy.

Bottom line: Regular grooming at Dogology Grooming doesn’t just keep your dog looking their best—it also plays an important role in flea prevention and overall health.

👉 Ready to protect your pup from fleas? Book your grooming appointment at Dogology Grooming in Ann Arbor today!

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