Dog Flea Control

BUCKS, MONTGOMERY, MERCER & HUNTERDON COUNTIES

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Understanding Dog Fleas

Also known scientifically as Ctenocephalides canis, dog fleas are a common nuisance in Greater Philadelphia and New Jersey. Dog Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of warm-blooded hosts, including dogs and humans, causing itchy and irritating bites.

Beyond causing discomfort, dog fleas can spread serious diseases to both pets and people. Due to these health risks, professional pest control is the most effective solution for eliminating flea infestations.

Why Are Dog Fleas a Problem?

Dog fleas can invade both homes and businesses, often going unnoticed due to their small size. If left untreated, they reproduce rapidly, leading to a persistent and frustrating infestation.

Dog fleas are tiny and remain concealed easily.
Effective flea treatment must target both adult fleas and their larvae.
Flea infestations cause significant discomfort for both pets and people.

Fortunately, professional exterminators from Newtown Pest Control have the expertise and specialized treatments to eliminate even the most severe flea infestations.

What Do Dog Fleas Look Like?

Dog fleas are only about 1/8 inch long, making them difficult to spot. They have:

No wings, but strong hind legs for jumping.
A flat, brown or black body that turns reddish-black after feeding.
Small heads in proportion to their bodies.

What Do Dog Fleas Eat?

Dog fleas primarily feed on the blood of dogs and rabbits. However, in heavy infestations, they may also bite humans.

Flea larvae feed on the feces of adult fleas, which contain undigested blood, sustaining their growth until they mature into adults.

Where Do Dog Fleas Live?

Dog fleas spend most of their lives on a single host. Their life cycle consists of:

Females laying up to 500 eggs on a host.
Eggs hatching within 1-12 days.
Larvae feeding and spinning cocoons before maturing.
New adult fleas emerging due to increased temperature or vibrations.

Grooming and regular flea prevention methods significantly reduce flea populations on pets.

Damage Caused by Dog Fleas

While dog fleas do not damage structures, they contribute to significant pet care expenses. Infestations may cause:

Flea Allergy Dermatitis: A common skin condition in pets leading to infections, irritation, and hair loss.
Tapeworm Infections: Pets can ingest infected fleas, leading to intestinal parasites requiring veterinary treatment.
Anemia and Bartonellosis: Severe infestations may lead to blood loss, fever, and other health complications.

Are Dog Fleas Aggressive?

Dog fleas are persistent pests. They rarely leave their host unless removed through grooming, pet treatments, or professional intervention. Without control, a single host can quickly become infested with hundreds of fleas.

Do Dog Fleas Carry Diseases?

Yes. Dog fleas are more than just a nuisance; they can spread harmful parasites and diseases:

Tapeworms: Both pets and humans can contract tapeworms through flea ingestion.
Murine Typhus: A bacterial infection that causes fever, headache, and rash.
Skin Infections: Excessive scratching can lead to secondary infections such as MRSA or staph.

If flea bites appear in clusters and cause severe itching, medical attention may be necessary.