What You Should Know About Flea Infestations In Your Pleasanton Home
Identifying Fleas
Fleas are small parasitic pests, measuring in at about one-twelfth to one-sixteenth of an inch long. They are reddish-brown and live throughout the United States. Although fleas are not capable of flying, they possess powerful legs that allow them to jump onto hosts from relatively far away. Fleas are known for affecting animals, including wildlife and pets alike. However, fleas can also feed on humans if given a chance, which means you need to be aware of the potential threats that fleas can pose.
Threats Posed By Fleas
While many people view fleas as annoying pests, annoyance is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to these parasites. Fleas are responsible for at least two major plagues in history. Furthermore, fleas are still the number one transmitter of the bubonic plague. Fleas can also transmit murine typhus to humans and trigger allergic reactions in at-risk people. Moreover, their bites leave itchy, red bumps that can become susceptible to secondary infections if they are scratched.
If that’s not bad enough, fleas can also cause problems for our pets if they are not protected. For example, fleas can cause anemia in animals and spread tapeworms to pets not treated with flea protection. Therefore, whether it’s for you or your pet’s benefit, you need to do everything you can to prevent fleas from invading your property.
How Fleas Get Into Homes
Although fleas usually get into homes on the bodies of pets, even homes without pets are susceptible to flea infestations. That’s because other wildlife venturing into a yard could also introduce fleas to the area. As such, taking steps to limit wildlife from coming into your yard can protect your property from flea infestations. To keep your home safe from fleas , you should:
- Pick up any fallen fruit or vegetables from your yard.
- Do not leave food or other trash around your yard.
- Pick up any uneaten pet food immediately.
- Secure all gardens from potential wildlife.
- Keep your lawn well-manicured.
- Keep all trees and vegetation trimmed back around the perimeter of your property.
- Regularly vacuum your home.
- Talk to your vet about flea protection for your pets.
If you can accomplish these simple steps, you should be able to keep both your family and your pets safe from these dangerous little pests.
The Best Method For Flea Prevention
While limiting wildlife in your yard is a great way to limit your exposure to fleas, the best method for flea prevention is a collaborated effort between your vet and the pest control professionals here at Patriot Pest Management. While your vet can provide protection for your pets, the trained pest technicians here at Patriot Pest Management will ensure your property is protected from disease-causing fleas. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Give us a call today.
