Flea and tick season

Summer is approaching, and it's time for pet owners to prepare for flea and tick season, which could be worse this summer because of mild winter temperatures and spring moisture.

Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, moist environments.

Recent rainfall in some areas of the U.S. combined with high temperatures have given fleas and ticks an optimal environment for reproduction.

It is important to begin flea treatment as early as possible. A good place to start is with a flea comb and good bath for your pet. Soap acts as a light insecticide and reduces the need for stronger chemicals.

Fleas lay their eggs on an animal, as well as feed on its blood. Adult fleas and eggs can be controlled with medication available from your local pet store or On-line from Parti Poodle Express Pet Supplies.

Over-the-counter medications containing methoprene or pyriproxyfen are effective when applied before there is a major infestation so it is important to start your pet’s treatment early in the season.

Having a fenced yard will prevent pets from being exposed to new flea and tick populations. Yards can also be treated with granulated insecticides. Bedding material in dog houses needs to be cleaned or disposed of. It's also important to treat any areas where pets loaf, such as the edge of the house. Simply keeping lawns mowed can decrease pest problems. Short grass does not provide as much shade and moisture for small insects like fleas and ticks.

Rodents, which can spread fleas and ticks, are less likely to inhabit a yard with short grass. Liquid sprays and a thorough cleaning can be used to control fleas indoors. Mop, vacuum and dust floors and furniture to remove flea eggs from your home. Always remember to dispose of vacuum bag contents after use. Children and all pets should be removed from the area before chemical treatment.

Treating pets for fleas is important for human health as well as animal health. Flea bites can cause infections or allergic reactions in some people. Children as well as pets can get tapeworms from accidentally ingesting an infected flea.

Overall, flea problems are decreasing in the U.S. Today we have much better products to treat fleas and ticks, but pet owners need to do their best to treat the problem before it gets out of hand.