Fleas are some of the most common pests in Dallas, TX, but it can take weeks before homeowners realize they have a flea problem. Many people don’t understand how fleas work or whether these pests are dangerous. In fact, some folks don’t realize that fleas bite humans as well as pets. If you have questions, Romney Pest Control has answers. Here’s a guide to everything you want to know about fleas in Dallas.
How do you know if you have fleas?
Detecting a flea problem requires a sharp eye, as these pests leave very few traces of themselves, at first. You are most likely to detect a flea problem by noticing dark specks in your pet’s fur or in areas where your pets sleep. These specks are either fleas or flea droppings, also called flea dirt. And you don’t have to have pets to have fleas. If you find these pests on your skin, or you keep getting small, itchy bites, you might have a flea problem in your home that came from other animals getting in.
What is the cause of fleas?
All it takes is one flea to start an infestation. Fleas can be picked up when you take your pet outside or when your pet comes into contact with other animals. Humans can also pick up fleas. Although unlikely, a flea can jump on you somewhere in public, hitchhike a ride home, and infest your property from there.
What does a flea bite on a human look like?
Flea bites are small, red, and very itchy. These bites are often seen in clusters along the shins, ankles, and forearms. Some people develop rashes or hives on top of the bites, especially if they have an allergic reaction. Generally, flea bites are more clustered and itchy than bed bug bites, since fleas reproduce much faster and bite more actively.
Are fleas dangerous?
They can be. Flea bites can sometimes cause allergic reactions, resulting in hives and rashes. People can also cause infections by scratching their bites and opening wounds in their skin. But the main reason fleas pose a threat is because their bites can cause tapeworm in your pets, spread diseases to humans (like the plague) or cause anemia due to blood loss.
Why are fleas so hard to kill? Does alcohol kill fleas? Will vinegar kill fleas?
Fleas are hard to kill for three reasons: their size, their movements, and their ability to reproduce. Because fleas are so small, targeting a treatment proves challenging. Additionally, fleas move fast, jump high, and burrow easily into fur or carpeting. As a result, DIY flea treatments don’t fully work, and unless the entire population is killed, these pests will continue to reproduce.
A commonly recommended DIY flea treatment is alcohol or vinegar. These chemicals can kill fleas; however, they won’t get rid of your flea infestations. Rubbing these chemicals into your pet’s fur won’t target the flea itself, and it can endanger your pet’s health. As mentioned, spray treatments also won’t work for these pests. Simply put, killing some fleas won’t stop the group from reproducing.
What to do if your house has fleas; How do you get rid of fleas in your house fast?
When fleas invade, your best bet is to contact the pest professionals at Romney Pest Control. We have the products and knowhow to exterminate every last flea without harming your pets, and we’re ready to service your Dallas home. Contact us today, and let’s restore safety to your household.
