Flea problems are a nuisance in Australia, especially around the time summer gets close. Although there is a generalized and effective flea treatment for dogs and pets, it might be beneficial to consider preventing the problem by its roots. To begin with, having a general idea about fleas is a good start, their life cycles, and their habitats, to name a few. Fleas are quite difficult to deal with since they target pets and infest yards, and before homeowners realize it, their house becomes a breeding ground for them. And why is this a major problem? People or pets allergic to flea bites can get a pretty nasty itch, and even germs can get transferred through bites. But don’t worry! With the right steps and some preventive measures, flea attacks can be kept at bay, providing a safe environment for both the residents and the pets.
- Focus On the Yard First: Wait, shouldn’t the pets be the first focus? Not if prevention is what people want. As mentioned before, the only way to eliminate the chances of infestation is to attack it at the most probable area, the yard of a house. Start by cutting down long grass and regularly mowing the lawns. Doing this can minimize the active flea presence by not giving them a place to linger. The next step would be to take measures to prevent feral animals from gaining access to the property. The chances of being infected by fleas for these animals are significantly higher compared to domesticated pets. So trimming the bushes, removing areas overgrown with grass filled with debris or shrubs, and sealing off any holes or crawl spaces should do the trick. As an added measure, stock up on flea sprays that are effective on yards and bushes.
- Flea Treatments: Buying an effective flea treatment for dogs and pets can reduce the presence of fleas and may even kill them if they manage to latch on. Experts recommend pet owners trim long hairs of pests and properly brush them using flea combs before letting them inside.
- Cleanliness In The House: Carpets and rugs are commonplace in homes for fleas to breed. Vacuuming them once every week should minimize that problem and do it more than once a week if the infestation is prevalent. Don’t forget to hit all the closed-off areas such as under the rug or furniture and places where pets are more likely to hang around. Fleas avoid areas that have too much activity so keep that in mind next time. It is also recommended to clean the toys and the bedding of household pets to kill fleas.
What If A Pet Has Fleas?
- Buy a flea comb to brush the pets after they go outside, focusing on the tail area and the neck.
- Wash pets using flea shampoos and use an effective flea treatment for dogs and pets like pills or other solutions.
- Don’t forget the bedding.
- Take advice from experienced vets regarding the pet’s flea problem if it gets out of hand.
Although flea infestations are quite a cause for concern, there’s no need to beat oneself up about it. They can go away just as quickly as they came as long as the right preventive steps are taken and carried out regularly. It might be a bit of work for a short time, but it will prevent any chances for the infestation from coming back again.
