I Found a Flea on My Dog, What Next?

Have you found a flea on your dog, but no evidence of an infestation? Here's what you need to know!

You’re petting your dog after a day outdoors and – eewwww – you spot a flea. Just one single flea. Your dog isn’t scratching, and you’re seeing no signs of a full-blown flea problem on your best friend. Should you chalk it up to a one-off, single stroke of bad luck, or could one flea be a warning sign of something bigger?

Where Did the Flea Come From?

Fleas are expert hitchhikers. Even if your yard is spotless and your dog is up to date on preventatives, that lone flea could’ve come from a number of places, including:

• A recent walk, where he’s gone through tall grass
• A romp at the dog park or boarding facility
• Contact with another animal friend, whether domestic or wild
• A favorite shady recess in your own backyard

Truthfully, you might not see the source, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there!

Why One Flea Could Mean Many More – Like a Lot!

Fleas are lightning-fast breeders, with one adult female having the ability to lay up to 50 eggs per day. If she does this on your pet, it can result in fleas hatching inside your home. They can hatch within carpeted areas or even your pet’s bedding or soft furnishings.

That one flea you found on Fido? It might be the only flea you see – until it’s not!

Is Your Yard Really Flea-Free?

You might not see fleas hopping through your grass, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Fleas often lurk in shaded areas, such as mulch beds, tall grass, wildlife trails and paths, and shady areas in your yard. Even the best-maintained yards are not immune to flea infestations. Yards become flea hot spots very quickly in the right environmental conditions, at no fault of the owners.

What Should You Do Next?

If you have found a flea, even just one – there are precautions you can take to see if the source of the flea is inside or around your home. Here are a few things you can do!

• Inspect your pet and their bedding
• If you found the flea while indoors, vacuum frequently
• Watch for increased scratching or skin irritation and re-check frequently
• Call Mosquito Squad of a flea pest assessment

Flea Prevention is Easier Than Elimination

The good news? You don’t have to wait until your dog is scratching nonstop or you’ve spotted fleas indoors. A proactive approach can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. At Mosquito Squad of Springfield, we offer targeted flea yard treatments that address fleas at every stage of life. Our treatments are designed to deter and control fleas throughout your yard, so your pet can continue to spend lazy days in his favorite spot.

Search for  flea pest control and call Mosquito Squad!

Ready to discuss your flea control for your yard ? Mosquito Squad of Springfield can help you deter and control an array of outdoor pests, including fleas, mosquitoes, ticks, and myriad others! Contact us at (413) 418-3359 or fill out our online form for a complimentary pest control assessment and quote.

Also read: Mosquito Yard Treatments: Only for Mosquitoes ?