Dealing with Fleas
Fleas are another common pest, and one that we will never be totally free of no matter what measures we use. They are just too adaptable, and their life cycles too varied, to get rid of them altogether. They are therefore an ideal candidate for the integrated pest control method, which does not seek total annihilation at all costs but instead reduces the problem so that it is barely noticeable.
A flea infestation is pretty easy to notice; everyone is breaking out in little red, itchy welts, the pets are constantly harassed, and it’s just general misery. As we said above, you will never be able to get rid of every flea so that means there are going to be fleas around, but you can greatly reduce the impact that they have on your life (in other words, they will still probably harass your pets, but not to too great an extent, and for the most part you and your human family members will be left alone).
The key to a successful flea program is time, dedication, and perseverance. You’ll need to take big measures once there is a big reproductive cycle, but these can be kept low through preventative measures. We’ll look at a bunch of the steps you need to integrate below.
Flea management
We will write this article as if you are already in dire straits; that is, the fleas need to go right now. You’re probably concerned with potential side effects, so the best way to deal with the problem is by using a pest control company familiar with integrated pest management (the approach that uses the least toxic solutions). One of the most effective methods of dealing with fleas is through heat treatment. Only pest control companies are licensed to operate or purchase one of the best tools on the market for this purpose, an infrared heater which kills fleas and eggs in carpets without any chemicals. This is obviously a totally safe and non-toxic approach.
You can also dry out and smother fleas and their eggs by applying diatomaceous earth. Be careful with this substance, as it is not good for humans (although it can be applied to pets in small quantities). Again, the best handler here is an expert.
Once the flea population has been brought under control, you need to commit to a program that will ensure an outbreak does not occur again. Pets and carpets are the two areas which you should pay the most attention to here. Pets should be bathed regularly, often using a citrus based flea dip. Your carpets need to be vacuumed regularly, as this will not only take care of fleas and eggs in the carpet, but also any sources of food they might eat as well.
While fleas will remain a part of our daily lives (although we may never see them) infestations need not be. Once you have taken the integrated approach recommended by a professional to solve an influx of fleas, make sure to take the appropriate preventative measures to keep future infestations at bay.