Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 7/11/2008

Question
i have a 17 yr old blind chiuauah, i cannot uase flea produts such as advantage or frontline, frontline almost killed her, we have been bathing her alot she tolerates that well, at my wits end as to what to do , im thinking of flea powder, any suggestios what to do

Answer
Joni -

It is important to control the fleas in her environment if you cannot control the fleas on her body.  Simply bathing her with baby shampoo is the bast route as flea baths and dips are often too harsh especially for small dogs and those that are not in good health.  Try to vacuum the areas she inhabits - her bed, the sofa - anywhere she likes to sleep or where she spends a lot of time.  Excessive flea bites can cause anemia and skin infections, so be very diligent by vacuuming often.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM