If you live near the mountains or campsites, like those of us in the Boise area, you have probably heard of fleas biting onto cats and dogs. Unfortunately, those pesky little bloodsuckers will bite humans too. If you go camping this summer, maybe to KOA Journey or Shafer Butte Campground and Picnic Areas, be mindful of fleas as they are most active in warm weather. Fleas can also tend to hang around your backyard, or wherever they can find a warm bodied host. Get Lost Pest Control has the equipment necessary to be your go-to Boise flea exterminator!
Identification:
Fleas are flat, and are mostly brown or black in color, with long skinny legs. They have six legs total and antennae. Fleas also lay white, oval eggs that can be so tiny you may need a magnifying glass to see them.
Dangers:
Fleas can be dangerous to both you and your pets. Get Lost Pest Control Boise exterminators want you to know that fleas can cause more than one type of health concern.
Dogs and cats:
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis
- Tapeworms – if your dog swallows fleas
- Bartonellosis
- Anemia
Humans:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swollen glands
- Pain around bite
- Flea-borne spotted fever
- Plague
- Typhus
- Cat scratch fever
Prevention:
- Limit the amount of time you and your pets spend outdoors
- Limit contact with wild and stray animals
- Make sure you and your pets bathe regularly
- Check for fleas regularly if you are outside in a place where they may be prevalent
- Fleas thrive in humidity, so it’s important to have the least amount of humidity as possible
Treatment:
If fleas get on your pets, it is important to wash them with warm soap and water. After that, make sure to comb through their fur with a flea comb. If fleas get on you or your family, you can use anti-itch creams, lotions, or ointments.
For treating fleas in your yard, one of the most effective methods is to use an insecticide or a pesticide. However, fleas can be hard to remove, and there is a chance they could latch onto you or your pets. Our team of Get Lost Pest Control professionals do not want you to risk flea bites, so let us put your mind at ease and be your Boise flea exterminator!
