By Sam Mazzota
King Syndicate
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Last summer, the flea infestation on my pets was the worst I’ve ever seen. I don’t use topical flea and tick treatments because I’m worried about their toxicity in pets. I don’t want to get bit up by fleas again this year. What do you recommend? — Judith L. in Hiram, Georgia
DEAR JUDITH: The battle against fleas and ticks can seem never-ending. Ticks pose an even deeper threat, as many of them carry serious diseases like Lyme and babesiosis. As the weather warms up, flea activity heats up as well.
To reduce the problem, attack it from multiple angles and do so before the summer sets in.
Bathe and comb out your pets to remove any dormant fleas or their eggs. Check them for attached ticks, especially if they spend any time outdoors.
Clean your home thoroughly. Pick up everything off the floor so you reach every spot. Vacuum as far into crevices as possible and along the wall where the carpet or flooring meet. Empty the vacuum outside the house immediately afterward.
Next, move your pets to a separate room and sprinkle a flea powder that contains diatomaceous earth over your carpet and along the edges of vinyl or laminate floors. Use a broom to brush the powder deep into carpet and crevices. Vacuum. Repeat this in every room of your home. (Pets can come back into a treated room after vacuuming.)
I recommend treating your furniture, especially sofas, the same way. Wash all curtains, rugs and bedding.
Clean your home weekly and reapply flea powder at least once a month. Check your pets for ticks every time they come inside the house, and brush their coats daily to remove fleas and their eggs.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
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