Are you tired of dealing with pesky, blood-sucking fleas in your yard and home? These tiny pests are incredibly resilient and can infest your space in several ways, making them a severe nuisance for homeowners everywhere.
Dogs and cats routinely fall victim to these tiny terrors, particularly in the spring and summer when temperatures are warm. But can dogs get fleas in the winter months too?
Whether you have a flea infestation or want to prepare for seasonal flea problems, it’s time to take action! Check out our blog to learn more about flea seasonality and what you can expect this winter.
How Do Flea Infestations Begin?
Fleas can hitch a ride into your yard on wild animals like squirrels, raccoons, or possums that can carry them on their fur. Once these tiny critters crawl around your yard and foliage, they’ll leave behind fleas that jump onto your pets or even you!
Once introduced to a space, fleas quickly take up residence, especially within the soil of luscious lawns. They don’t wait long to start a family either, quickly multiplying and taking over your outdoor space within a few weeks!
But the invasion doesn’t stop there – fleas can also enter your home. If you have pets, they are the most likely carriers of fleas, and they may bring them indoors after a romp in your backyard.
These pesky parasites can easily jump onto your furry friends while they’re outside, hitching a ride into your home and infesting your carpets, furniture, and bedding. And if you’ve had visitors with pets or even infested clothing, fleas can set up shop in your home.
But the worst part? Once fleas have infested your yard and home, they can be incredibly difficult to get rid of.
Fleas can survive for weeks without a host and will still lurk after removing your pets or other carriers. Plus, fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day, so their population can reproduce and take over your space in no time.
Signs of Flea Infestation
Fleas are the stuff of nightmares for pet owners everywhere. These parasites are notorious for causing itching, scratching, and general discomfort in our furry friends. But how exactly do fleas infest our beloved pets, and what can we do to prevent it?
We know fleas can latch onto your pet’s fur when they run through an infested area; once they’ve found a host, they’re in it for the long haul. These tiny pests feed on your pet’s blood and can cause various health problems, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even anemia.
But how do you know if your pet has fleas?
The most common sign is excessive itching and scratching, particularly around the neck, tail, and hindquarters.
You may also notice tiny black specks on your pet’s skin, which are actually flea dirt (a nice way of saying flea poop!). And if you see live fleas hopping around on your pet’s fur, it’s time to take action.
For more information about how a flea infestation may present itself, take a look at this article from the American Kennel Club.
Can Dogs Get Fleas in the Winter?
While flea populations may decrease in the winter due to the colder temperatures, fleas can still survive indoors in heated environments. Plus, adult fleas can tolerate temperatures as low as 45°F for short periods, but they prefer warmer temperatures and humidity to thrive.
If you live in an area with mild winters or warm temperatures year around, fleas can thrive no matter the season. However, a bitter chill will knock out most of these pests if the weather consistently stays cold.
Heated homes may provide a warm and humid environment conducive to flea survival. Flea eggs can hatch and develop into adult fleas even during the colder months, leading to a potential infestation.
It’s important to note that even if flea populations die off during the winter, they can still return in the spring. Flea eggs can remain dormant for several months and will hatch when temperatures rise and humidity increases.
But can dogs get fleas in the winter?
Many pet owners assume that fleas are a problem only in the warmer months, but the truth is that dogs can get fleas in the winter too. While fleas may not be as prevalent during the colder months, they can still survive!
So, pet owners need to remain vigilant all year round regarding flea prevention. Don’t let the cold weather fool you – fleas could be a constant problem for pet owners, and taking the necessary steps to protect your dog from these pesky parasites is essential.
Protecting Your Dog From Fleas
So can dogs get fleas in the winter? Of course, they can! That’s why a protective approach to flea control is vital to keep your pet safe.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent fleas from infesting your home and your pets, no matter the season.
Regular grooming is essential for preventing fleas. Brushing your pets can help remove fleas or eggs in their fur. Bathing your pets with flea shampoo can also help to kill fleas and prevent them from multiplying.
Various flea prevention products, like spot-on treatments, collars, and oral medications, can quickly eliminate fleas and prevent their eggs from hatching within your canine’s long fur.
In addition to grooming and flea prevention products, keeping your home clean is crucial for preventing fleas. If your pet spends time outdoors, vacuum often to catch any fleas that may have snuck indoors. Don’t forget to wash your pet’s bedding and toys, especially if you have an active infestation.
And if you suspect your pet has fleas, don’t wait – take them to the vet immediately for a thorough check-up and treatment plan. These pests can make your pup miserable, so prompt action and an effective pest control plan are your best bet.
Dealing with fleas can be a frustrating and time-consuming process, but with suitable preventative measures and treatment plans, you can keep these pesky parasites at bay and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Thankfully, the trained technicians at Innovative Pest Solutions are here to help! Our flea prevention services can keep your yard free of fleas and ensure your furry friend is safe no matter the temperature outdoors!
Contact us today to set up your first appointment with us!
