Fleas

Fleas are a parasite that often live on domesticated animals, though they can be found on any animal with fur. They are often discovered inside the homes of pets or homes with previous pet owners, and have been known to bite and feed off of humans as well. Though their bite is not painful, it can cause irritation to the skin and even allergic reactions due to the fleas saliva. This parasite can be very problematic because they can be so difficult to get rid of. A fleas hard outer body prevents them from being smashed and the small spines on their bodies even protect them from being brushed off a pet . With strong, elongated legs they can easily jump from one host to the next.

Signs of Fleas

Excessive Scratching

Since pets are the most common host for fleas, they will often be noticed on your furry beloveds. Though scratching itself is normal, if you notice your beloveds scratching more than usual you may want to check them for fleas. When checking your pet, look for black pepper looking flakes amidst its fur. This is flea feces, also known as flea dirt. Fleas don’t like light so they will hide close to the hairline of your pet. When looking for fleas, you will most likely come across what these fleas leave behind on your pets skin. Searching in areas where the fur is less thick may help you to spot these parasites if your pet has them.

Small red bumps

Fleas bite their hosts and humans are just as susceptible. The bites usually appear as small red bumps in clusters and are extremely itchy and uncomfortable. In most cases, you will find them towards the bottom of your legs as fleas can jump off into the carpet where you commonly walk.

Wildlife

If your pet is active outdoors it is highly possible they can become infested with fleas through being around wildlife in the area. Squirrels, raccoons and rabbits are just a few examples of wildlife animals that can carry fleas. Because fleas jump from one host to the next, they can easily jump from these wildlife animals to your furry friend. If you are concerned about fleas in your area, talk with your local veterinarian about how you can prevent your pet from getting fleas.

Concerns for Fleas

Fleas are parasite vectors, meaning they are disease transmitters, carrying one disease from a host to the next. Because fleas are often found on rats, they have been known to carry extremely dangerous diseases such as the Bubonic Plague, Typhus, Tungiansis and Tularemia. Some of these diseases are more commonly found is specific regions but with the rise of international travel, these diseases have been reported in the States. The most common infections or reactions caused by fleas in the U.S. are tapeworm, skin dermatitis, asthmatic type reactions and flea hypersensitivity.

Tapeworm primarily affects pets as adult fleas are infected with the tapeworm from a previous host and spread it to pets when they ingest fleas while grooming. Flea saliva has been known to cause skin irritation on humans, appearing as itchy bumps or a rash. Flea feces can cause asthma type reactions if inhaled and flea bites themselves can leave dry, crusty lesions on the skin of your pet which may result in hair loss because of constant scratching.

Flea Control Solutions

We set out to identify the source of any flea infestation so that all fleas inside and outside can be eliminated using our 5 step S.M.A.R.T. Process:

Through our S.M.A.R.T. process we determine all entry points, secure the fleas from entering in the future and dispose of all dead pests and contaminated debris. Once we are confident that your home has been safely cleared and secured we customize a plan, tailored specifically to your needs, to prevent any future infestations.

Our process encompasses the biology, anatomy, psychology and social systems of all pests and wildlife; designed to help you understand the ‘why’ behind your infestation. We specialize in elimination,sanitation, prevention and routine maintenance of your home or office so you can be rest assured your home is protected from future infestations.