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$67 Pest Control
Ty Archer
Pest Control Technician
Chris Mosby
Pest Control Technician
Mackenzie Keene
Office Manager
Otay Ranch homes frequently deal with cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis). These reddish-brown insects are about 1/8 inch long and typically infest cats and dogs, feeding on their blood. Fleas can cause itching, hair loss, and, in severe cases, anemia. They also bite humans, leaving behind red, itchy welts that may lead to allergic reactions.
The flea’s life cycle includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female fleas lay between 20 and 50 eggs per day, which fall into carpets and bedding. Larvae feed on organic material and grow in humid areas. The full life cycle lasts around 18 days, with adult fleas living for up to 40 days on a host.
Dog fleas, also known as Ctenocephalides canis, are parasitic insects that primarily infest dogs but can also bite humans and cats. Although less common in California, these fleas still pose an issue. They are reddish-brown, wingless, and small, making them hard to detect. Dog fleas feed on the blood of their hosts, leading to irritation and discomfort, and can also transmit parasites like tapeworms.
Dog fleas have a complete life cycle that includes eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. The eggs are often dislodged from the host and land in areas like carpets or bedding. Larvae feed on organic debris and adult flea excrement. Pupae develop in cocoons and can remain dormant for months. Adults live for several weeks, constantly feeding and reproducing.
Sticktight fleas are often found on ground squirrels and poultry, attaching to their hosts’ ears and eyes, causing irritation and health issues. Pets that roam outdoors are at greater risk, especially in areas with ground squirrels. Regularly inspecting your pets can help catch infestations early.
Treatment should target both the pets and their environment. Treat the pet and its bedding on the same day. For homes with outdoor pets, ensure that both indoor and outdoor spaces are thoroughly inspected and treated.
At Otay Ranch Pest Control, our flea control starts with a comprehensive yard inspection. We focus on areas where fleas are most likely to be found, particularly in places where pets spend a lot of time. This allows us to direct our treatment to the most impacted zones. Our technicians carefully examine shaded regions and areas with heavy foliage for signs of flea activity.
Indoors, we inspect common hiding spots such as baseboards, cracks, and crevices. We also check pet bedding, carpets, and furniture to ensure that all flea habitats are uncovered. A thorough inspection is key to effective flea control.
Before your flea treatment, follow these steps to prepare. Mow your lawn outside. Inside, remove items from the floors, like toys and rugs. Vacuum carpets, under beds, and closet floors, then discard the vacuum bag. Sweep and mop all hard floors. Treat pets and clean their bedding on the same day. The house should be empty for 2-3 hours while the treatment dries.
We start by inspecting your yard to find flea hotspots, treating up to half an acre. Indoors, liquid treatments are applied to baseboards, cracks, and pet play areas. Floors may be slippery after treatment, but they dry quickly. Fans or air movers can help with faster drying.
Otay Ranch Pest Control includes a complimentary follow-up treatment two weeks after the initial flea control service. This follow-up ensures any newly hatched fleas are eliminated. Our technician will conduct the same thorough treatment, focusing on the previously treated areas.
To help maximize results, we recommend regular vacuuming of carpets and sweeping of floors after the first treatment to encourage flea eggs to hatch. Additionally, keeping pets treated and their bedding clean is crucial for preventing future infestations.
We’re committed to Otay Ranch and its neighboring regions. Our team works tirelessly to protect your homes and businesses from pests. We care deeply about these communities and strive to offer excellent service and dependable results.
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