Keep fleas out of your home with these pest control tips.

After a long winter, your family pet may be chomping at the bit to get outside and enjoy the nicer weather. As the spring and summer approach, however, the presence of fleas, ticks and other parasites can become more of a problem. Although proper pest control should be a priority throughout the year, flea populations tend to grow exponentially as the weather gets warmer. Take these precautions from Ideal Partners to safeguard your home and pets against fleas.

Pest Control Basics: A Clean Fight Against Fleas

If you have children, then you may already spend a good chunk of your day scrubbing, mopping and doing laundry. Meticulous cleaning habits are imperative when it comes to pest control, too. Fleas in their larval stage can use fibers or debris from your carpet to build their cocoons or pupae, which can be nearly impossible to detect with the naked eye. Fleas are also adept at burrowing into the fabric of furniture and carpet, so it is important to thoroughly vacuum, especially in areas where your cat or dog likes to hang out. Flea eggs can even hatch inside your vacuum cleaner, so be sure to empty the canister or change bags regularly.

Simple soap and water can be powerful pest control weapons. Wash your pet’s bedding in the hottest water possible to prevent flea infestations. Fleas can even congregate on your pet’s toys, so it’s not a bad idea to wash them in hot water periodically as well.

Of course, before they hitch a ride inside via your pet’s fur or the fabric of your clothes, fleas live outdoors. Standard lawn care practices can prevent your yard from becoming an inviting destination for fleas. Mow the grass and rake leaves regularly, ensuring that clippings and other debris are removed. Don’t let weeds and brush grow up along your fence lines. You can also treat your lawn with a vet-approved pest control spray to further protect against flea infestation.

Pest Control Treatment for Your Pet

If you find tiny black specks in your pet’s fur or bedding, then a flea infestation is likely already in progress. Commonly referred to as flea dirt, these specks are actually fecal matter left behind by the fleas. At this point, your cat or dog will need to be treated. Most effective pet pest control treatments will include two major components: one that kills adult fleas, and one that prevents the development of immature fleas, eggs and larvae. Contact your veterinarian for advice on which products to choose. This should be dealt with immediately. In addition to being an extreme irritant, fleas can lead to more serious health problems like flea allergic dermatitis, anemia and tapeworms.

Follow these easy pest control steps from Ideal Partners to keep your pets and home happy and healthy this spring and summer. If the problem has gotten out of hand and it’s beyond prevention, please contact us today. We will help you reclaim your home!