If you have a pet, the possibility of fleas is very real. Nobody wants these unwelcome houseguests - they annoy your pet and infest your home. Flea control takes time and some work, but it's definitely worth the effort if you are dealing with the problem.
- First, take the necessary steps to get rid of the fleas on your pet. Pets are usually the source of a home flea infestation, as these insects tend to hitch a ride on a warm-blooded animal.
- Clean areas that your pet occupies on a regular basis. These locations are more likely to have fleas, eggs, larvae, and pupae. Make sure you clean basement and garage floors as well.
- Vacuum carpets often, as this not only prevents an infestation, but can also get rid of a large amount of the critters if you already have a problem.
- Place flea granules in your carpet once a year. They will last for 12 months and work well without causing any harm to pets or people.
- If you're really worried about an infestation, apply an insecticide to carpets, such as micro-encapsulated pyrethrins, as many times as applicable. But be careful. Families with small children may want to stay away from a chemical solution.
- If you do use chemicals, also apply a growth regulator that will break the life cycle of the flea.
- If you can't seem to get rid of the fleas on your own, call in the pest control professionals. They will know how to deal with this pest problem safely and effectively.
- In summer and early fall fleas are the most active. If you begin flea prevention in the spring, you'll achieve better results.
- It's more important to worry about flea eggs than the adults. Eggs can be planted almost anywhere, and are more difficult to wipe out.
- Control fleas outside of your home as well. No matter how clean you are inside the house, if there are a lot of fleas outside you will always have to deal with them inside.
- Always read the label before using chemicals to rid your house of fleas. With kids and pets, these solutions aren't always the best choice.
