Fleas

Fleas can not only cause discomfort for animal pets and people due to their bites, but they do carry diseases such as plague and murine typhus, and parasites such as dog tapeworm.  Flea infestations in and around structures should be a concern due to these factors.

Over 10 known species of fleas exist in the Northwest; the most common to affect urban populations is the pervasive cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which affects cats, dogs, other mammalian wildlife, and humans.  Fleas develop by a complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, and adult).  The larvae do not bite but will live on the blood left behind in the adult flea fecal matter.  Adult fleas will begin to seek a blood meal within a day or two of emergence from the pupa stage and can, under optimum circumstances, live for a year.

Many pet owners have resorted to using topical flea products available over the counter or through veterinarians to control fleas on their pets.  In recent years, reports have begun to come in that fleas in some parts of the U.S. are now developing resistance to these products.  This makes professional treatment of dwellings and properties for flea control more important than ever.  Additionally, these topical treatments generally will not prevent fleas from coming into the structure from outside but will merely reduce the risk of flea bites for the animal itself.

Corrective measures: It is important for the property resident to prevent or eliminate entry onto the property of other wild animals, such as mice, rats, opossums, and other animals that can carry fleas in.  If flea treatment becomes necessary because of interior infestations, a veterinarian or other animal grooming professional must simultaneously treat the pet.  Pet bedding should be removed and cleaned or disposed of.  A short-term professional treatment service by a licensed pest control professional should be performed to eradicate the infestation inside.

Flea treatment can be a complicated process.  Leupitz Pest Control has the experienced staff that can answer any of your questions regarding flea treatments and guide you through the process to eradicate these pests with the utmost care for the safety of your family and pets.