Fleas

Fleas can live for about 100 days during which time the females produce 400-500 offspring. Fleas transport themselves on rodents and other mammals, and usually remain on their hosts at all times. These pests use their powerful legs to jump as high as 8 inches vertically, which is 150 times their own height. Fleas infest both household pets and wild animals like opossums, raccoons, and skunks. They can also be found on shoes, pant legs, or blankets, which can transfer the fleas to new environments. Fleas are the most common transmitter of the rare bubonic plague. They also transmit the bacterial disease murine typhus to humans through infected rats. 

Their saliva can cause serious flea allergy dermatitis in pets. Their debris has been reported to cause similar allergic reactions in humans. Fleas can also transfer tapeworms and cause anemia in pets, which is why active flea management is an important component of pet care. Flea bites commonly cause painful, itchy red bumps. Homeowners should clean and vacuum frequently to help remove flea populations and prevent the laying of eggs. It's also necessary to keep the lawn groomed to avoid rodent habitation. Pet owners should practice active flea management by keeping dogs on leashes when outside, bathing and grooming pets regularly, visiting a veterinarian annually, and using flea treatments according to manufacturer's direction. 

Treatments for fleas are only effective with good collaboration between technician and homeowner. There is required preparation work to be done before treatments can be completed. Your Inspector will go over any conducive conditions and specific prep work after a quick inspection is completed.