If you are a pet owner in Washington, D.C., you know all about fleas and some of the issues they can cause. Nothing is worse than watching our four-legged friends scratch uncontrollably because they have fleas. These tiny pests can drive our furry friends crazy but can also be an issue for humans.
At Miche Pest Control, we are familiar with all kinds of pests in Washington, D.C., including fleas. Read on to learn more about fleas, the issues they can cause, how dangerous they can be, how you can prevent them, and how professional pest control in Washington, D.C., can help keep you, your pets, and your home protected from fleas.
How To Identify A Flea Infestation
Fleas in the Washington D.C. area are tiny pests that can be difficult to identify. They hide in the corners of your home and our pets' fur, making it hard to spot a flea infestation. But the sooner you can catch an infestation, the quicker you can stop it from spreading.
Here are a few signs of a flea infestation to be aware of:
- Excessive scratching by your pets
- Hair loss
- Red bumps on your skin or the skin of your pets
- Tiny, black specks on pet beds, carpets, and rugs
If you see any of these signs, you are likely dealing with a flea infestation in your home. Call us immediately so we can get to work keeping the flea infestation from growing.
Fleas Can Be Hazardous To The Health Of People And Pets
Fleas may be tiny, but they can cause big problems. Fleas are parasites, and they will bite both humans and pets. A flea bite will cause a small, painful red bump. Most flea bites will have the characteristic halo around the bite. The pain and itchiness of a flea bite will usually subside within a few days, but it is critical that you avoid scratching. Scratching a flea bite can open it and increase the chance of secondary infection.
Aside from itchy bites, diseases transmitted by fleas include the bubonic plague, murine typhus, and cat scratch fever. Fleas also transfer tapeworms and cause anemia in our pets.
All The Ways Fleas Find Their Way Into Our Homes
Even though fleas can jump almost 150 times their body height, they lack wings and are incapable of flying. A flea's primary method of transportation is hitchhiking.
Usually, if you have a flea problem, it is introduced by another pest or animal. Here are some of the ways fleas show up in your home or yard:
- Wild animals bring them in
- Stray pets can carry fleas
- Rodents that infest your home can also bring in fleas
- Fleas or their larvae come into your home on fabric items like furniture, rugs, clothing, and bedding
They are a resourceful and parasitic pest, meaning it can be difficult to prevent fleas without help from pest professionals like our trained experts at Miche Pest Control.
Why Professional Pest Control Is The Key To Total Flea Control
While there are some things you can do on your own to keep fleas under control, professional help is critical when it comes to flea control. Because fleas are difficult to keep off your property, an infestation can spread quickly.
At Miche Pest Control, our experts can develop a home pest control plan specifically for your home to prevent fleas and other common Virginia pests. Call us today if you are dealing with a flea infestation or want to ensure your family and your pets are protected.