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Why DIY Flea Control Products Just Don't Cut It

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So you’ve noticed Fido or Fluffy scratching excessively and realized that fleas are the culprit- what do you do next? Do you run to store for a flea bomb, sprays and various other products that are touted to be the best in flea control? While that is the inclination of many homeowners who realize their pets and home are infested with these biting insects, perhaps there is a better solution. DIY fleas control may seem to work but really doesn’t always cut it and there could be drawbacks to using these kinds of products.

Flea bombs or foggers are supposed to kill fleas and can be successful… but not always. Setting off a single flea bomb may not be enough to exterminate fleas in a large area, leaving survivors to continue their battle against you and your pets. Other disadvantages of using flea bombs, you, your family and pets must leave your home for a period of time making it inconvenient. Also, you have to worry about belongings left behind that could be negatively affected by the chemicals in these bombs. The chemicals used in bombs and foggers is generally very flammable so if you forget to shut off pilot lights or leave an open flame, your whole home could be at risk.

Other products on the market include flea sprays and carpet powders. While there are reports that they can be effective in killing adult fleas and interrupting the life cycle, the jury is out on whether they have the ability to completely eliminate an infestation. When checking out reviews, issues that have been noted include the awful smell, the oily residue left behind and quite simply ineffectiveness.

So what should you do, if you notice flea bites on yourself or family members or have been picking fleas off the pets? First off, if you haven’t already talked with your vet about a flea control for your pets give them a ring. Secondly, if your home is infested with fleas, consider contacting a local pest control company that offers flea control. Professional exterminators have a keen understanding of the pest as well as the tools and knowledge to completely eliminate an infestation.

When it comes to preventing flea infestations, it is best to consult your vet before flea and tick season begins and get your four legged family members on a regimen that will kill fleas should they find your pets. You should also take a moment to consider your property. You see, oftentimes fleas are dropped onto your lawn from wildlife passing through. Are you seeing a lot of activity? If so, what can you do to deter deer, raccoons, mice and other wild animals from visiting your property? While putting up a fence may not be an option for you, some simple pest-proofing tips include:

  • Removing bird feeders that attract wildlife.

  • Keeping your lawn well trimmed to reduce harborages for insects.

  • Feeding pets inside rather than leaving the Kibbles ‘n Bits outside all day long and chance feeding the wildlife community.

  • Inside, vacuum your home frequently including areas where pets sleep and under furniture.

  • Wash pet bedding regularly to kill any fleas that may have hitched a ride in.

If you are worried about fleas in your home or on your pets, think twice before you make a trip to the hardware store or another retail environment and load up on flea treatments. It may be that there are more risks associated with these products than is best. Call your vet and a pest control company for the most effective flea control solution instead.

For help getting rid of fleas in your home, Schendel Pest Services can help. Offering Topeka pest control as well as pest control in Kansas City and throughout their large service area, their flea exterminators know how to eliminate infestations and utilize comprehensive fleas control methods.