Starting in April, most of the country moves into “Flea Season” as fleas thrive in warm, humid climates with temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees.
There are more than 200 species of fleas which can affect dogs and cats with varying degrees of reaction.
At best, a flea bite will result in some discomfort with itchy skin. Animals which are allergic to the flea salvia will experience exaggerated symptoms of itching, red skin and perhaps hair loss. At worst, fleas can transmit disease and cause tapeworm infections and anemia.
Adult fleas live on the animal, laying eggs in the fur. These eggs drop out onto bedding, rugs, upholstery, carpet and bedding. Thus, a shelter or other pet environment will be challenged to eliminate a flea infestation.
Experts suggest a multi-pronged approach, starting with treating the animal first. Then, to address the environment, you’ll need to implement a combination of steps including weekly laundering all textiles which may have had contact with the dog or cat (bedding, blankets, etc.) for at least a month or two and weekly vacuuming of carpets and upholstered furniture.
However, a much easier approach would be to use a Minimal Risk Pesticide which is formulated for immediate and residual elimination of fleas. One such product is LIGHTS OUT Bed Bug Killer. Although marketed primarily for bed bugs, this minimal risk pesticide is also effective on fleas.
That’s because it relies on a process which breaks down the outer, hard, waxy layer of the bug, thus causing a fatal rupture of the exoskeleton and death by dehydration. Since it is made with ingredients which qualify for the 25 (b) exemption in the EPA Pesticide Regulations (considered G.R.A.S – Generally Regarded As Safe) it is the non-toxic alternative to pyrethroid-based pesticides. Use it with confidence in dog and cat shelters, dog houses and on bedding.
Best of all, it not only delivers an immediate kill to fleas, but continues to kill for up to 30 days for any flea which comes in contact with the residue during that time. Thus, it addresses the problem of hatching eggs which have embedded in carpet, bedding or blanket fibers.