Flea Circus: Keep Your Pet Itch-free All Year Long

So, what is the best way to keep your home from turning into a flea circus? Well…we will help you become the ringmaster of a flea-free, three-ring home!

You have three concentric rings, unlike a circus with three rings next to each other. If you take the right precautions, these form barriers that keep your pets itch and bite-free through even the longest Summer.

• Ring One: Start with your yard. It is the frontline in protecting your home and your pets. If fleas and other insects avoid your yard, then they can’t get to your residence or your cats and dogs. Keep your lawn cut short, and don’t overwater. Fleas prefer moist, tall grass in shaded areas. Lay down flea sprays and other products after your pets are in for the night.
• Ring Two: Your home is next. Carpets can be homes to hundreds of fleas and their eggs. They can also nest in hardwood floors where the pieces join together. To reduce and eliminate their numbers, vacuum frequently and empty the canister each time. If you have a vacuum with a bag, replace it if you suspect fleas are present. Fleas can also hide in furniture, pet bedding, and your bedding. There are excellent sprays to treat furniture fabrics that are safe for your pets so that you can use them anytime. Always wash pet bedding in hot water and wash your bedding regularly if your pets also sleep with you.
• Ring Three: Finally, there is the barrier you place around your pet. A quick visit to your veterinarian gives you the best combination of flea collars and medications. He can also recommend the right flea shampoo and advise you on how often to bathe your cats or dogs.

After taking a walk, remember to check your pet at the door before going inside. If you live in an area where your home has a mud room, that is perfect. You can keep a flea comb and a bottle of flea spray there for immediate use. When you perform an exam, look for fleas, eggs, and little black specks that show fleas have at least visited your pets.

If you do see fleas, act immediately. Flea bites are uncomfortable for you and your pets but especially painful and irritating for young kittens and puppies. If these steps are ineffective or if your pet does not recover as quickly as you think it should, contact your veterinarian.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!