They're not fleas - what are they?

[bigsister]

We have noticed tiny black 'dots' on our white poodle. Then we saw some crawling things, they definitely aren't fleas because they don't jump, just crawl away into the fur. They are longish and brown, about 3mm long. We are going to see the vet tomorrow but what can they be? Anyone any ideas please? Thanks.

[ttfn]

I think they are fleas - once they have found their host they have no need to jump about. They will just stay within the wool on the skin and take their feed of blood. Easily dealt with so need to panic.

[Prudie]

I should think they are definitely the larval stages of fleas, look more like tiny worms.

[Ratty2E]

Fleas do crawl through the fur I'm afraid and the black dots are probably flea poo. Dab some with a damp tissue and you should see it turn red because it's dried blood

[bigsister]

Thank you both, I hope you are rght as fleas hopefully are easy to treat and get rid of. Lots of Hoovering in the og=ffing I think. Thank you again. Have caught two of the blighters and stuck them to a piece of paper to take with us to the vet tomorrow.

[pastafreak]

Were they fleas?...and did you get something to treat your house also?..because once they appear on your pet,it's guaranteed they are in your house.

[bigsister]

Yes, they are fleas!! They [I have 2 poodles] have been given the first treatment with Frontline, and I have 2 further months supply from the vets. Also have spray. Have been hoovering 'til I'm blue in the face, spraying etc. Have only managed 2 bedrooms and the hall. Will be doing the lounge tomorrow. Am buying a flea comb on Ebay [vets didn't have 1]. Vet's bill was £62.19, but worth every penny if they go! Thanks for your help and interest. I really appreciate it.