just got home from the dog park and noticed these tiny black bugs crawling on scout’s fur - they look like poppy seeds on legs. my partner’s convinced they're harmless, but i’m not ready to turn our house into bug central. any advice?

Hey there! It sounds like Scout may have picked up some little hitchhikers, which are likely fleas. These tiny black bugs are known for resembling moving poppy seeds. While they might be harmless at first glance, fleas can lead to other issues if not addressed promptly.

Here's what you can do right at home:

• Start by giving Scout a thorough bath with a flea shampoo. This can help remove many of the fleas present.
• Brush Scout’s fur with a flea comb to catch any remaining fleas. Have a bowl of soapy water nearby to dip the comb into and kill the fleas you find.
• Check your home and other pets for signs of fleas so you can treat in one go. Vacuuming and washing Scout's bedding in hot water can help.

Keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Excessive scratching or biting at their skin, as fleas can cause itchiness and irritation.
• Red or irritated skin, hot spots, or hair loss, which suggest flea allergy dermatitis.
• Pale gums or lethargy in serious cases, which could indicate anemia from flea bites, especially in small or very young dogs.

If you notice Scout is extremely uncomfortable, if there are signs of a flea allergy, or if she seems unwell beyond the usual itchiness, don't wait to get in touch with a vet. It's also important to call a vet if Scout is under 12 weeks old or very small, as they might be more susceptible to complications from fleas.

I hope Scout feels better soon!

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.