We love our furry friends. The companionship, laughter, and entertainment they provide adds immeasurable joy to our lives. While we love our pets, we certainly don’t love what often comes with them: fleas. You’re not the only one — dogs and cats dislike these biting creatures as much as you do. Do not despair. Here are five tips for ridding your home of fleas.
1: Be proactive
It is easier to keep fleas out than it is to remove them after they have made your house their new home. Your veterinarian can recommend flea-treatment products. Suggestions may include flea shampoos, flea dips, spot-on topical medications, and prescription medications. Some trial and error may be required; pets can develop sensitivities after treatment. When you find what works best, diligent use will go along way in your fight against fleas.
2: Keep up with housekeeping
Fleas develop in four stages (egg, larvae, pupae, adult). Another important way to combat them is to regularly launder bed linens and pet bedding in hot, soapy water, followed by a tumble in a hot dryer. You should also vacuum frequently, making sure to seal and discard the vacuum bag or canister contents after you have finished. You do not want to re-release fleas into your home once they have been removed.
3: Spray them away
Use specially-designed sprays to banish fleas. Growing consumer concern over harmful chemicals in their homes has led companies to develop non-toxic products that use essential oils to combat fleas. These products can be used regularly on carpets, flooring, and furniture. Some products can even be applied directly to your pet. Follow label instructions and take note of any sensitivities your pet displays.
4: Foggers
Foggers are designed to treat large areas of your home. They are especially useful for getting into cracks and crevices. Read product packaging to learn what, if anything, must be done before product use. You may need to extinguish pilot lights. If treating a kitchen, covering or completely removing dishes and food items may be required. It is also a good idea to apply a flea treatment to your pet to stop them from bringing new fleas back into your home.
5: Seek professional help
At some point, you may want to hire a professional pest control service. Contact several companies for competitive pricing and to find out if they offer treatment packages that will save you money. While this is suggested as a last resort, it may be necessary to handle an especially difficult flea infestation.
Having pets does not automatically mean having fleas. Fido the dog or Princess the cat can stay while you maintain a home that is wonderfully flea-free. Keeping you, your guests, your pet, and your home clear of fleas take consistent action. It also requires using a few helpful products consistently. It is entirely possible to keep your pet but not their fleas.
