Every dog owner strives for a flea-free environment, but sometimes even our best laid plans go awry. Dogs have a knack for getting themselves into just the right situation to bring these pesky, itchy bugs into our homes. If you find yourself in a battle to get rid of fleas, you are not alone. Here are some things you can do to stop a flea infestation before it gets out of control.
- Vacuum
It may not seem like the first step in ridding your home of fleas, but it might be the most important. If you have carpeted surfaces, your handy-dandy vacuum could be just the tool to save you from a prolonged battle with fleas. Once fleas are in your carpet, and they do it quickly, then it can seem impossible to get rid of them if you’re not vacuuming daily, sometimes even twice a day.
Your vacuum will be able to suck up living fleas and their eggs. It’s important to be consistent with your vacuuming, and leave no carpet untouched. Be sure to dispose of what the vacuum collects in a trash bag and quickly remove it from the home before the fleas have a chance to escape. - Washing all Linens
Like the carpet, fleas love to make a home in your fabrics. Similar to lice infestations, you’ll want to round up all of your dog’s bedding (and any linens he has access to) and give them a wash in very hot, soapy water. Then dry thoroughly and pack into airtight container or trash bag for 36-48 hours. This will help kill off any remaining bugs and eggs. You are free to wash the fabrics and repeat the process as many times as needed until you no longer see fleas. - Spray the House
Sometimes bad infestations mean chemical warfare…in a sense. Non-toxic and natural options like essential oils can aid you in your quest to banish fleas from your home. You can spray pet-safe flea deterrent in high-traffic areas, especially ones you and your dog can’t quite avoid in the home. This extra step helps ensure that the above methods take hold and rid your home of these uninvited visitors.
Shampoo and Treatment
The most obvious step in ridding your home of a flea infestation is starting at the source – your dog. If you’re not attacking the fleas where they live, then you’re messing up. Roll up your sleeves and begin everyone’s dreaded task of giving flea baths. Find a flea shampoo you trust that won’t adversely affect your dog (if he has sensitivities) and follow the directions exactly as written – this usually means letting the shampoo sit for several minutes before rinsing. A thorough drying session is also recommended to help remove fleas. Repeat the bath every few days as needed.
Follow up with preventive flea and tick treatment of your choice. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend their preferred brand if you are unsure. And then make sure to keep using the treatment every few months so that all of your hard isn’t undone by a future bout of fleas.