It's a delicate situation when a client has fleas. Sometimes the client doesn't know their dog has gotten fleas. Sometimes they know and just don't tell you. Regardless of whether the client is aware, there are some precautions you can take to not spread the fleas to other client's homes or to your own home.
Fleas are itchy and uncomfortable for the dogs or other animals that are unfortunate to have them. Fleas are parasites and can spread very quickly. They can be difficult to get rid of because they constantly lay eggs and they are so small they can be hard to even see.
Firstly, the client needs to be made aware of the situation (just in case they don't know) so they can get it taken care of. I had a client who didn't know he had fleas and was actually very embarrassed, but I assured him it was nothing to be ashamed of and I let him know the best ways to get the situation under control. It can take weeks to eliminate a flea problem.
In the meantime, what can you do to make sure fleas are not jumping on you and traveling with you everywhere you go?
It's up to you, but you may want to let your other client's know that one of your dogs has fleas but you are proactively taking steps to prevent the spread of fleas to other homes. Let them know all the steps you are taking to keep the situation under control. Realize some clients may be very uncomfortable when they hear the word "flea" and might be anxious for you to continue to assist them with their companion animals.
Here are a few steps to take to prevent spreading fleas to other clients and to your own home.
When finished walking any animal that has fleas, try to thoroughly check your body and clothes for any fleas. You might be able to see eggs as well, but they are tiny and incredibly difficult to spot. If you see any, dispose in a cup of warm, soapy water to kill the fleas and eggs.
Spray yourself down really good with a quality product that has good results fighting fleas. I use this natural soap that contains neem oil and is very inexpensive. I make it into a liquid to spray myself down with by cutting it into small chunks and putting it in a spray bottle with hot water, then shaking well until most chunks are dissolved. Shake again before each use. Note: this product does contain natural oils that may stain some articles, so test before use.
Focus on spraying your pants and shoes very well. If possible, put your shoes in a bag and spray well again, and change your shoes (and possibly clothes if the infestation is severe) for your next client. I also spray my car down before I get in and after I exit. Then, when I get home, I spray my furniture, carpet, near doorways, the furniture cushions, under the furniture, etc. to try to prevent getting fleas in my own home.
If the client who has fleas allows it and you feel comfortable doing it, offer to wash the pup with a quality flea shampoo and help your client apply treatments. I find the pill form is the best and the liquids don't tend to work as well, but that's just my own personal opinion.
I have also printed off information for pet parents who have fleas so they know how best to handle this circumstance. Clients who have fleas really need to wash all bedding, vacuum daily, keep their yard trimmed, and treat their companion animals with anti-flea products. You can do your part to help, but getting rid of fleas is ultimately up to your client. Do your part not to spread any infestations and stay vigilant. Good luck!
Sources
personal experience
Pets WebMD: How to Stay Pest-Free
Wag: How to Prevent Your Dog from Getting Fleas
The Spruce: Flea Control and Prevention in 5 Steps
Skin by Nature Neem Oil Soap
Note: Some links may contain affiliate links which, if you choose to buy from, I may receive a small commission for the sale. I only link products I feel are quality items and you will never pay extra for buying anything through the links I present. Thanks!
Fleas are itchy and uncomfortable for the dogs or other animals that are unfortunate to have them. Fleas are parasites and can spread very quickly. They can be difficult to get rid of because they constantly lay eggs and they are so small they can be hard to even see.
Firstly, the client needs to be made aware of the situation (just in case they don't know) so they can get it taken care of. I had a client who didn't know he had fleas and was actually very embarrassed, but I assured him it was nothing to be ashamed of and I let him know the best ways to get the situation under control. It can take weeks to eliminate a flea problem.
In the meantime, what can you do to make sure fleas are not jumping on you and traveling with you everywhere you go?
It's up to you, but you may want to let your other client's know that one of your dogs has fleas but you are proactively taking steps to prevent the spread of fleas to other homes. Let them know all the steps you are taking to keep the situation under control. Realize some clients may be very uncomfortable when they hear the word "flea" and might be anxious for you to continue to assist them with their companion animals.
Here are a few steps to take to prevent spreading fleas to other clients and to your own home.
When finished walking any animal that has fleas, try to thoroughly check your body and clothes for any fleas. You might be able to see eggs as well, but they are tiny and incredibly difficult to spot. If you see any, dispose in a cup of warm, soapy water to kill the fleas and eggs.
Focus on spraying your pants and shoes very well. If possible, put your shoes in a bag and spray well again, and change your shoes (and possibly clothes if the infestation is severe) for your next client. I also spray my car down before I get in and after I exit. Then, when I get home, I spray my furniture, carpet, near doorways, the furniture cushions, under the furniture, etc. to try to prevent getting fleas in my own home.
If the client who has fleas allows it and you feel comfortable doing it, offer to wash the pup with a quality flea shampoo and help your client apply treatments. I find the pill form is the best and the liquids don't tend to work as well, but that's just my own personal opinion.
I have also printed off information for pet parents who have fleas so they know how best to handle this circumstance. Clients who have fleas really need to wash all bedding, vacuum daily, keep their yard trimmed, and treat their companion animals with anti-flea products. You can do your part to help, but getting rid of fleas is ultimately up to your client. Do your part not to spread any infestations and stay vigilant. Good luck!
personal experience
Pets WebMD: How to Stay Pest-Free
Wag: How to Prevent Your Dog from Getting Fleas
The Spruce: Flea Control and Prevention in 5 Steps
Skin by Nature Neem Oil Soap
Note: Some links may contain affiliate links which, if you choose to buy from, I may receive a small commission for the sale. I only link products I feel are quality items and you will never pay extra for buying anything through the links I present. Thanks!
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