Any type of mild soap will work fine for drowning fleas.  The key is to leave the lather on for a few minutes.  I use castile soap (bar and liquid) on my pals because it is so mild.  Like Carole, I live where fleas aren’t really a problem...but those ticks are another issue.  Plucking ticks off my dog really grosses me out. Thankfully she gets very few because I use frontline on her but once in awhile one gets determined enough to hitch a ride.

It’s not worth pursuing litigation as pets are considered chattel and you’ll get maybe $25.  However, a letter from Chelsea would probably be very effective.

Betsy