Fleas

What do fleas look like?

A tiny pest that can cause big problems, adult fleas grow up to 1/8th of an inch in length.  These biting pests have hard, flat bodies that are hard to kill.  They have very large powerful back legs that they use for jumping; fleas have an impressive 7-8-inch vertical jump.

How do fleas spread?

Fleas spread through their hosts.  They are parasitic pests and require a host to feed on in order to survive.  The most common way that fleas make their way onto a property is on the bodies of wild animals.  Chipmunks, mice, squirrels, opossums, and raccoons are all commonly infested with fleas. 

As infested wild animals travel across your property, flea eggs will drop off their bodies and develop into new adults that are looking for hosts to feed on. New hosts could include other wild animals, pets or even people.

Why are fleas inside my home?

In most cases, pets are responsible for bringing in these pests but flea infestations can happen in any home, even ones that don’t have pets that go outdoors.  Remember fleas are excellent jumpers and can make their way inside without hitching a ride.  They’re also carried in on shoes, pant legs and possibly on second hand items like furniture bought at yard sales.   A mouse or wildlife infestation can also be the source of a flea problem.  In the case of rental properties or newly purchased homes, fleas may have been introduced by the pets of the previous tenants.  Flea eggs can lay dormant for extended periods of time until the right conditions become available for them to develop and become active.

What do flea bites look like?

Fleas leave behind small red bumps that are bordered by a reddened halo; they will also have a single puncture mark in the center of the bump from where the flea has fed.  Fleas generally bite people on the legs, feet, knees; and armpit areas, the itchy flea bites are usually found in random groupings. 

How do I get rid of fleas?

At the first sign of a flea problem in your home, contact Pine State Pest Solutions.  Our highly trained pest control technicians have the knowledge, tools and experience to exterminate fleas. After assessing the situation and identifying the pest pressures, we’ll develop a treatment plan that leaves your home free of fleas.   

While your home is being treated for fleas, we highly recommend having your pets treated by their veterinarian. 

Flea prevention tips

Pine State Pest Solutions offers the following tips to stop flea bites and activity in and around your home:

• Wash pet bedding often.

• Regularly vacuum areas where pets spend time.

• Make sure your pet is taking an effective flea preventative prescribed by the vet.

• Do not let pets sleep with you.

• Inspect your pet and yourself for fleas after spending time outside.

• Discourage wildlife activity on your property.