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Flea Identification

 

Fleas are troublesome pests carried on mammals and birds. They infest homes, bird cages and poultry houses. Both males and females bite and suck blood. The bite often leaves an itchy, red spot. Some kinds of fleas transmit diseases such as bubonic plague, endemic typhus and tularemia to humans.

Several kinds of fleas attack mammals and birds. The Dog flea and the Cat flea, which look very much alike, are the most widespread and the most troublesome as household pests. Both species attack dogs and cats, and sometimes man; especially if the family pet(s) are temporarily away.

 

The adults are small, wingless insects with hard, dark-coloured bodies. The female usually lays her eggs loosely among the hairs or feathers of the host, where they will stay for a few days and then drop off. In homes, they develop in crevices in flooring, and along baseboards, under edges of rugs, and between cushions in upholstered furniture

Flea Habitat

 

Fleas are parasites, feeding on blood. They are found on the host and in various household cracks and crevices where they shelter after feeding. They are also found in pet bedding

Flea Life Cycle

 

Females lay several hundred eggs in their lifetime. Eggs hatch in about 10 days and become mature in about 10 days. Flea infestations can number in the thousands.

 

 

Flea Prevention

The use of a quality flea shampoo on your pet during the peak summer season will help prevent an infestation.

Preparation Steps for Flea Treatment

 

1. Arrange to have your pet(s) professionally treated for fleas while the premises are being treated.

2. Vacuum all rugs, carpet, and upholstered furniture. Special attention must be given to pet resting areas. Vacuum bag should be discarded immediately upon completion.

3. Mop all tile and vinyl floors; Sweep all floors that cannot be mopped.

4. Remove and clean or dispose of all pet bedding.

5. Vacate the premises during service and do not re-enter until at least 4 hours after treatments. Open windows for 20 minutes after re-entry if possible.

6. Before service, infants, pregnant women and people suffering from heart, kidney, respiratory ailments or allergies should consult a medical doctor.

7. Place blanket on the floor in areas where an infant may play, for one week after treatment.

8. Avoid waxing or washing floor surfaces, especially the edges for at least 3 weeks after treatment, and do not steam clean carpets. Vacuum as usual. Expect to see adult fleas for up to 1 week after treatment.

 

 

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