Jun 30th 2021
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People who think fleas are only a concern for animals don’t realize just how dangerous and difficult an infestation can be. These small parasites are easy to pick up and tough to get rid of, so it pays to know how you can avoid them and prevent outbreaks.
Early Signs Of Fleas
Fleas are tiny, almost microscopic insects that feed on the blood of large animals and people. While they are incredibly small, they actually can be seen by human eyes. These reddish-brown, oval-shaped pests are easier to detect on light-colored fabric or hair, so it’s important to regularly inspect for fleas and know what early warning signs might clue you into an infestation:
- Scratching pets: While animals can have all kinds of skin problems or allergies that cause them to itch, frequent scratching or rolling around can be an early sign that fleas have infested their coats.
- Bugs & eggs: Even before you notice them scratching, you should check pets regularly for fleas or their eggs. Use a fine-toothed comb and go slow.
- Bites: Fleas leave little red welts behind after their feedings, so spotting these is another sure sign of parasites. People can also experience flea bites, especially as an infestation grows on a property.
The Dangers Of Fleas
Fleas are often introduced to homes after a pet comes in from outside, and it’s not like everyone has the time to comb through their pet's fur every time they come inside. Not only are fleas easy to introduce, but they are also tough to get rid of completely. The longer fleas are around, the more they can expose you and your furry friends to these problems:
- Itching: The uncomfortable welts that fleas cause can be miserable to deal with. Protecting our pets from this discomfort is the responsibility of all pet owners.
- Allergies: Not only can the bites themselves itch, but some animals can also have allergic reactions to a flea’s saliva, causing rashes and other symptoms.
- Infections: Pets don’t know better than to continuously scratch to try and relieve the itchiness. This frequent scratching can lead to infections.
Flea Prevention Measures
To avoid the problems fleas cause, you have to prevent them from getting inside your home in the first place. It doesn’t take long for a flea population to grow and become practically impossible to get rid of. That’s why you should take these steps that reduce your risk:
- Inspections: Whenever possible, you should inspect your pets and clothing for any fleas that might be clinging there. Do this outdoors so that fleas that get brushed out won’t simply hide elsewhere inside.
- Protections: Collars and sprays that can be worn by pets will help ward off fleas, though these don’t always work and their effectiveness can quickly fade.
- Professionals: The surest way to protect against fleas is with routine inspections and treatments of your property.
Professional Protection Keeps Fleas Away
Fleas are such a common occurrence for pet owners that people don’t often consider them for the health hazards that they are. Even homes without pets can get fleas, as they can be brought into your yard or home by other kinds of common pests, like rodents. That’s why the only way to truly stay protected from fleas, not to mention drive out existing populations, is with professional help. At Pestmaster® Services, we can make sure your home is as protected as possible. During an inspection of your property, we’ll check for fleas, eggs, and problem signs that might increase your risk. We’ll not only get rid of existing populations, we offer proven prevention treatments that we can administer to your exterior, making sure fleas are never a problem again.
Keep your property safe from parasitic fleas, contact Pestmaster® Services today.
