Reduce pets pesky pests

  • Published
  • By Veterinary Treatment Facility
  • 325th Services Squadron
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Fleas are a problem throughout most of the country and the world, but because of the moist climate and limited flea-killing frosts Floridians have to be particularly vigilant when it comes to protecting their pets from these pests. The key to good flea control involves treating pets as well as their environment.

All immature flea stages (eggs, larva, pupae) live in the environment - the yard and in the house. Fleas in the pupal stage, the stage just before fleas become adult fleas, can remain dormant for up to a year. When the pupae senses vibrations, such as an animal walking by, it will emerge as a mature adult and jump onto the animal, usually remaining there for its lifespan.

Beyond annoying pet owners and pets, fleas can cause more serious problems. They may carry diseases such as tapeworms and Bartonella, the organism that causes Cat Scratch Disease in humans. Furthermore, many pets are extremely sensitive to flea bites and only one or two bites can cause a severe skin reaction known as flea allergy dermatitis.

Treatment and prevention of a flea infestation starts with killing the adult fleas living on the animal. The safest and most effective flea preventatives are the ones sold by veterinarians.

Tyndall Veterinary Treatment Facility carries a wide range of flea products. The most popular products available are applied once a month onto the skin on the back of the neck for cats and between the shoulder blades for dogs. Wait two to three days before and after bathing before applying this type of flea prevention.

Treating the environment also plays a crucial role in treatment and prevention of fleas.

The first step is regular, diligent vacuuming in the home. Vacuum under furniture as well as the furniture itself, and also focus on baseboard areas. Dispose of the material vacuumed, as flea eggs, larvae and pupae can survive in a vacuum cleaner bag. A professional carpet cleaning can also eliminate flea eggs and larvae that may be hiding deep down in the carpet. Wash all pet bedding, area rugs, and floor mats in the washing machine or with hot water if not machine washable.

Next, treat the environment with insecticides and/or insect growth regulators. Professional treatments often last longer than do-it-yourself treatments.

Although the majority of products available are not toxic, it's important to follow manufacturer directions carefully and keep pets and children away from treated areas until the product has completely dried. When treating the yard, focus on areas of tall vegetation, under decks and any shaded areas where pets spend a lot of time. Flea larvae are sensitive to heat and dryness, which means they will not develop in sun-exposed areas of the yard.

Flea infestations are annoying, time-consuming and expensive. The best defense is prevention.

Taking flea preventative measures can be expensive and time-consuming, but the time and money are worth protecting your pet and preventing your home from becoming a flea circus!

For more information on flea prevention products, call 283-2434.