Tips to Eliminate Fleas

Three Simple Tips to Eliminate Fleas

Springtime! After the cold and snow of winter, many of us are excited and ready to see the world come alive again. Green grass, leaves on the trees, birds chirping, and everyone enjoying time outdoors once again.

One activity I personally enjoy, along with many others, is taking my dog for a walk. Along with our pets and us enjoying the outdoors, so are unwanted pests. The spring season brings the warmer weather that pests enjoy and thrive in. One pest in particular that we all need to be aware of, regardless of being pet owners, are FLEAS!

Fleas — what are they?

First, let’s talk about what fleas are, what they look like and what they do. In Kansas City, there is only one type of flea we see – the “Cat Flea.” Do not be fooled by the name, these fleas can be found on all mammals and birds, and can survive in households.

Fleas are rather small, only measuring in size of up to 3/16 of an inch as an adult. They do not have wings but can jump at the blink of an eye, appearing as if they flew. Fleas have a tough hard body and feed off the blood of mammals to survive. Typically, when fleas are active, their population is very large.

How to spot fleas?

There are two easy ways to help determine the presence of active fleas. You may notice your pets constantly biting and scratching certain areas. You may be walking through a lawn or landscape and spot very small and quickly jumping insects near belt buckle height and below. These are both strong indicators of possible active fleas.

Can people get flea bites?

People often wonder if, aside from their pets, they too can be bitten by fleas. The answer to this question is “yes.” When the population is severe enough, even people can be at risk. Keeping control over fleas will help provide a healthy outdoor experience and more enjoyable moments.

Treat your lawn and landscape to keep fleas under control.

So, how do we control fleas? It’s as simple as 1-2-3! • Regular cleaning • Treated pets • Treated lawn

The first rule in pest control is sanitation. This means regular cleaning and vacuuming inside your home. Doing this not only promotes a healthy living environment but will also reduce the risk of any active fleas or eggs establishing residence inside your home.

With proper cleaning also comes treating your four-legged companions. These treatment methods can include oral tablets, liquid gels, soaps/shampoos, and/ or protective collars. Please discuss with your local vet to find the safest treatment option for your pet.

Lastly, the final step is treating your lawn and landscapes. There are several different ways of doing this. There are granular and liquid materials that have been designed specifically to combat fleas. Through experience, we have seen that in active flea situations, liquid treatments tend to provide the most effective results. I recommend discussing with your pest control expert regarding the options they provide and what option best suits your property and needs.

A clean home, protected pet, and treated lawn/landscape are all excellent and effective methods to keep fleas under control. It is absolutely essential that these three steps are all completed in order to ensure the best protection possible for your family.

KEVIN RISCOE Pest Control Manager

Kevin Riscoe is one of Ryan Lawn & Tree’s Pest Control Managers with just under five years of experience. He has always had a passion for the outdoors and wildlife. You can reach Kevin directly at kevinriscoe@ryanlawn. com or 913-267-3684.

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