They may be small, but fleas can pose a significant risk to your home and everyone in it. At only a tenth of an inch in length, these pests can easily hitch a ride into your home on pets, old furniture, clothing, or even on people.
In addition to severe discomfort for your furry friends, both you and your pets run the risk of contracting one of several flea borne diseases that can lead to lasting negative health effects. With all this in mind, it is crucial that you are able to spot fleas before they spread and learn how best to protect your home from an infestation.
Prevention - Keeping Fleas Out of Your Home
While homes without animals can still attract fleas, they most commonly enter the house on the backs of pets like cats and dogs.
There are some steps you can take to protect your pets including:
- Keeping your pet's food sealed and dry
- Washing your pet's bedding in hot water regularly
- Bathing your pets with flea shampoo
Fleas are resilient, even in the winter. Be sure to sweep and vacuum year-round and often while paying close attention to the cushions and rugs they love to hide in. These proactive practices can help mitigate the risk of fleas entering your home, but there is always a chance that some may get in.
Removal - How to Get Rid of Fleas
Once you have found fleas in your house, it's best to call the professionals.
Flea treatments start with a thorough inspection to identify the high-risk areas in and around your home, which allows your pest removal specialist to create an individualized two-part plan for you:
- Outdoor treatment aims to eliminate fleas at the source by fogging and spraying the bushes and foliage around your home with a pet-safe chemical concentrate.
- Indoor treatment is designed to clear out all the unwanted inhabitants that are already in your home by spot treating high risk areas.
Protect Your Home
Fleas are known for spreading quickly, so if you see them, do not wait until they can gain a foothold in your home. Let the pest control experts at Greenix help you keep your house free from fleas with a comprehensive inspection and treatment customized for your home.
Don't wait until it's too late. Schedule an appointment and get your free quote today.
Common Questions About Flea Removal and Prevention
How can I identify fleas?
Fleas are tiny, often appearing as nothing more than brown specks. While they do not have wings, they have powerful legs and can easily jump between both people and animals. Check for fleas by looking for movement in your pet's fur and in your carpets; two of their favorite places to lay eggs.
Do fleas bite people?
Fleas are as much a risk to people as they are to pets. They often target the legs and feet, leaving red bite marks and causing itchiness and discomfort. The risk of disease often stems not from bites, but from the "flea dirt" (feces) they leave behind.
Can I get fleas if I don't have a dog?
Absolutely. If you are living in an apartment, there is a chance that fleas were brought in by a previous tenant's animal. They can also make their way in through infested furniture, rugs, and carpets.
