Even if you are a first-time dog owner who has been very careful about preventing fleas, your dog may still end up with these pesky insects. Fleas and ticks can find their way into your home and onto your pets. Once a few fleas are established in your yard, they can quickly infest your pet, yard, and home.
Most fleas that bother dogs are the Ctenocephalides felis, more commonly known as the cat flea. That’s right – even though they look the same, cat fleas are more likely to bother your dog than dog fleas are!
Fleas have flat bodies and powerful legs that enable them to jump 100 times their height. When they detect a host, they spring up and latch on to the animal. They then migrate to places where the animal cannot easily scratch or bite them, such as the abdomen, joints, and under limbs.
Here are the top causes why your pet dogs are acquiring fleas and ticks, even if they are just staying around your properties.
Acquired from Other Animals
Fleas come from other animals that already have them. They can quickly move from one animal to another and then make their way into your home on your pets. Outside, fleas like to hang out in shady areas, near long grass or bushes, where they can wait for a host to come by. They can live for up to three months without feeding on a host, so they remain a threat even when they’re not on your pet.
It is impossible to stow away all wild animals out of your yard, no matter how tall your fence is. Animals like squirrels and raccoons will find a way in, bringing fleas and ticks.
If you have more visitors in your yard, there’s a greater chance that an infestation will come with them. Feral cats that roam your property can also carry fleas and ticks. This is one reason you shouldn’t encourage wild animals to go into your dog’s space by leaving out food like nuts, corn, and seeds. Even a bowl of water you left out for your dog can invite other animals to stick around.
Gained from Human Transportation
Fleas and ticks can hitch a trip into your house on you and your visitors. They can come from the person’s home or the pet without their knowledge.
If you enjoy hiking in areas with a high population of fleas and ticks, it’s easy for a few to join a ride on your clothing. These parasites are very good at finding ways to attach to potential hosts to get their next blood meal.
Infection from Outside the Home
Your pet is at risk of picking up fleas and ticks whenever they go outside, even if it’s just for a quick walk around the block. Other opportunities for exposure include play dates at the dog park, visits to the vet or groomer, and rides in the car.
Check your dog’s fur thoroughly for ticks after being in wooded or grassy areas. Ticks are good at hiding, so check all the nooks and crannies, paying close attention to the neck, abdomen, and armpits.
Conclusion
A new or seasoned dog owner must be careful to prevent your canine companion from contracting fleas and ticks. Ensure you are thoroughly familiar with what you will do and how you will do it.
Be sure to stock up on the right supplies before the season arrives to have everything you need if you need it. Do not forget to talk to your vet about the best natural and chemical remedies for getting rid of fleas and ticks.
Try to clean your area with pest control companies that have been well-researched before letting them into your home. If you need to hire pest control services in Pelham, AL, contact our team at Prowess Pest Control today!
