How to Identify Fleas
Fleas are hard to see, due to their speed and tiny size. Adult fleas are about 1/8th" long, and can appear as tiny brown or black specks hiding in your pet's fur.
The flea is involved in most home infestations and will attack both cats and dogs. It is usually carried into the home by a pet. Once inside, large populations can build up quickly.
Fleas live on the outside of the body and need to feed on the blood of animals in order to produce eggs. Because fleas usually feed and lay their eggs while the pet is sleeping, the pet's resting areas are where the most fleas will be found. Many pets acquire fleas outside in the yard.
Fleas normally live on your outside animals and rodents and move around by jumping from them or from your carpet onto your feet or lower legs.
How to Identify Ticks
Ticks are easy to identify as small, flat, round insects that attach themselves to their host, often burying their heads under the skin to feed on blood. They range in size from tiny, pin size deer ticks, to the large, engorged ticks you see on dogs and wild animals.
Ticks are of the arachnid species (like spiders) and are blood suckers like mosquitos. A multitude of life threatening diseases such as West Nile are carried by these pests.
Unlike fleas, ticks can't jump long distances, and they only move to find the best place to latch on the skin. They move by hiding in vegetation, shrubs and lawns, and grabbing on to what happens to brush up against them.
Hazards of Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks are considered pests for several reasons:
- Health hazards: Fleas and ticks can carry and spread diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tapeworms, which can cause serious illness in humans and pets.
- Irritation and discomfort: Fleas and ticks can cause itching and discomfort, especially in pets, and can lead to skin infections if not removed properly.
- Allergies: Flea and tick bites can cause skin irritation, redness, and swelling, especially in people and pets who are allergic to their bites.
Get Rid of Fleas & Ticks in Your Home or Yard
By working with Williams Pest Control, you can effectively get rid of fleas and ticks and prevent them from causing health hazards, irritation, and discomfort to you, your family, and your pets.