Flea Pest Control in Reno

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Fleas Get Into My Home?

Fleas primarily gain entry into your home by hitching a ride on your pets. Dogs and cats that spend time outdoors can easily pick up fleas from infested yards, parks, or even from other animals, and then bring them inside. Once indoors, adult fleas can jump off their host to lay eggs in carpets, rugs, furniture, and pet bedding. However, even homes without pets are not entirely immune; fleas can also jump onto the clothing or shoes of humans, or be brought in on used furniture or carpets. Once inside, they can rapidly multiply, quickly infest various areas of your living space.

What Health Risks Do Fleas Pose to Pets and Humans?

Fleas, though small, can pose several health risks to both pets and humans. For pets, flea bites can cause intense itching, leading to skin irritation, allergic dermatitis, and secondary skin infections from excessive scratching. Severe infestations, especially in young or frail animals, can lead to anemia due to significant blood loss. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms if a pet accidentally ingests an infected flea while grooming. For humans, flea bites are typically itchy, red welts, often appearing on ankles and lower legs. While usually just an annoyance, some people can experience allergic reactions. More seriously, fleas can transmit diseases such as murine typhus and cat scratch disease, and in rare cases, even the bubonic plague, making effective control crucial for public health.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Eliminate a Flea Infestation?

Eliminating a flea infestation is a process that typically requires patience and a multi-faceted approach, often taking anywhere from three weeks to several months. The reason for this extended timeframe lies in the flea's life cycle, which includes eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. While adult fleas are relatively easy to kill, the eggs, larvae, and especially the pupae (which are encased in a protective cocoon) are much more resilient and can lie dormant for weeks or even months. A single treatment usually only kills adult fleas. Therefore, a successful eradication plan involves repeated treatments, thorough cleaning (like vacuuming and washing bedding), and consistent pet treatment to break the entire life cycle and ensure all emerging fleas are eliminated.

Do I Need to Prepare My Home Before a Flea Treatment?

Yes, proper preparation of your home before a professional flea treatment is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. You will typically need to thoroughly vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture, including under cushions and along baseboards, and then immediately dispose of the vacuum bag outdoors. All pet bedding should be washed in hot water or discarded. It's also essential to pick up all items from the floors, including toys, clothing, and small furniture, to allow the pest control technician full access to all areas. Any open food items should be stored away or sealed, and fish tanks should be covered with wet towels and their air pumps turned off. Crucially, all pets must be treated for fleas by a veterinarian at the same time as the home, and both pets and people will need to vacate the premises during the treatment and for a specified period afterward, as advised by the technician, to allow the product to dry and dissipate safely.

How Can I Prevent Fleas in the First Place?

Preventing fleas involves regular cleaning and maintenance. Vacuum your home frequently to remove flea eggs and larvae from carpets and furniture. Wash pet bedding and blankets weekly and administer vet-recommended flea prevention treatments to pets consistently. Regularly mowing lawns and trimming vegetation helps reduce outdoor flea habitats. Our team can provide additional guidance specific to Reno’s climate and environment for optimal prevention strategies.

Additionally, consider investing in professionally-applied preventive treatments, especially during peak seasons. These treatments create an inhospitable environment for fleas, significantly reducing the risk of infestations. We’re committed to helping you understand all aspects of flea prevention, ensuring a proactive and fortified approach to pest management.

Are Your Products Safe for Kids & Pets?

At Truckee Meadows Pest Control, safety is our top priority. The products we use are selected for their efficacy and safety profile, adhering to guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Our methods are designed to minimize exposure to children and pets, and we offer detailed instructions on precautions to take during and after treatment to ensure your family's safety.

Safety assurance extends to recommending practical steps to minimize exposure risk. We provide clients with clear, easy-to-follow guidelines on maintaining safe and comfortable living spaces during and after treatments, prioritizing the well-being of your family and pets.