Flea Control

Fleas are a big parasite problem in the south. Our warm climate and heavy humidity are a paradise for this parasite. Ideal conditions for flea survival are between 55-89 degrees Fahrenheit and 50-92% humidity. All stages can survive temperature extremes of 25-100 degrees Fahrenheit.  Their reproductive rate is rapid and by the time the parasite is noted, the flea population is much larger than realized.
 
Adult fleas begin feeding within minutes of being on the pet and egg production begins 24-48 hours later. Once adult fleas are on the pet they do not leave the pet, but their eggs dry and fall off, like salt from a salt shaker, within hours after being deposited on the pet’s skin & hair. This is how the environmental/ premise problem starts. Every adult flea seen results in hundreds of flea eggs in the environment. The flea eggs hatch in the environment and the larvae hide in protected areas such as carpeting, bedding, furniture, leaves, grass and soil. The larval stage then develops into a pupae stage, which can remain in the environment for several months, until conditions are right or a new host is available (usually the same pet). Pupae can remain viable in the environment, even when the other stages are unable to survive. New fleas emerge from the pupae stage and continue the parasite’s life cycle.
 
Environmental infestation is a crucial component of the flea’s survival strategy. Effective flea control must be aimed at all stages of the flea life cycle: on the pet and in the environment. This involves using products that kill the adult flea and prevent their eggs from hatching (IGR or Insect Growth Regulators). The pupae stage cannot be killed and remains viable regardless.
 
A. Pet -
     - Systemic flea product (Trifexis Tablets) that kill adult fleas before they can lay eggs.
     - Topical spray (Ovitrol Spray or similar) that work quickly and kill the adult fleas and their eggs.
 
B. Environmental Control -
     - Premise sprays that work inside the house to kill adult fleas and their eggs.
     - Applying a granular insecticide in the yard for constant control of adult fleas to
        prevent them from being able to deposit more eggs. A granular insecticide, usually
        labeled for ant control, will resist rainfall and not wash away.