Flea Control

Flea Control
With more than 2,000 different species of fleas, it is no wonder they are so abundant worldwide. Flea infestation can spread quickly, so it is important to be informed about controlling these pests, whether you are at home or plan on traveling with a family pet.

Due to factors such as local climate conditions, the flea season (as stated in the Flea Index) may vary from year to year. It should also be noted that fleas (in their various stages) can survive indoors during the cold weather months; therefore, a monthly regimen for flea control is recommended. Consult your pest control service about flea prevalence in your area. Ask how long the season lasts and have them recommend when to put your dog or cat on flea control.

Tackling flea infestation
If you think you may have a flea problem, you should act quickly to prevent a full-blown infestation of your home. Fleas multiply quickly and can easily jump from host to host. The transition from a pet to a home to a problem can be solved by your pest control service.

Taking certain steps and precautions before the pest control service arrives is an important part of a successful flea control program. Flea control is a three-step process: home, lawn and pet. Use the tips below to help you prepare for the service visit and to successfully maintain a pest-free home after receiving the professional service of your pest management company.

Before Treatment:

1. Observe where pets spend time, both inside and outside of the home.

2. Take your pets to a veterinarian to be checked and treated for fleas. To help avoid re-infestation, don't let freshly treated pets back into your home or yard until it has been treated.

3. Vacuum carpets, floors, rugs, drapes, upholstered furniture, mattresses and cushions. Use a vacuum with a disposable bag and dispose of it by incineration or by sealing in a plastic bag.

4. Wash or dispose of all pet bedding.

5. Clean or vacuum wood and tile floors with special attention to grooves, cracks and baseboards.

6. Sweep porches, steps and decks.

7. Cut the lawn and remove debris and clutter prior to yard treatment.

8. All unwrapped food should be covered or placed in cabinets or in the refrigerator. Food preparation surfaces and utensils should be covered. Pick up pet bowls from inside as well as outside of the home.

9. Be sure to remove all toys, decorative objects, pillows, and other items from the floor, including items stored under the bed or in closets, so that all areas of the floor can be treated.

10. Cover fish tanks and remove birds and hamsters when the technician arrives.

11. Make arrangements for everyone, including pets, to remain out of home and off the yard for approximately 4 hours after treatment. This will allow all areas to dry completely dry.

After Treatment
Once your home and yard have been professionally treated, a few additional steps are recommended.

1. All occupants and animals should stay off treated surfaces until they are dry.

2. Vacuum carpets every day for 10 days. Remove the vacuum bag outdoors and dispose of it properly. Do not be alarmed if you see adult fleas when you vacuum. These fleas were in the pupa and egg stages, which aren't killed by the insecticide application. However, there is enough residual control to last up to 4 weeks. That is enough time to kill adults as they emerge and give sufficient control in most situations.

3. Wash food preparation surfaces and utensils that might have come in contact with the insecticide.

4. Do not allow flea-infested pets in your home. If this happens, the house may get reinfested and retreatment will be necessary.

5. Check all screening of foundation vents around your home. This will prevent rats, squirrels and other flea-carrying animals from entering your home.

If you have any questions, want more information or would like to speak to a live person, click here!