As we move from summer into fall it is important to keep in mind that flea season isn’t over yet. Traditionally the doctors at Chehalis-Centralia Veterinary Hospital will see just as many flea problems in the fall as they do in the summer time. When treating flea problems in your animals remember that not only do you have to treat the animal that has the fleas, but treat ALL the animals in the household and treat the environment. Only about 5% of the flea population is in the adult form, meaning the majority is in immature stages that are in the environment (i.e. the couch, carpet, etc.). There are a variety of safe flea control products that are readily available.

There are some dogs and cats that are so allergic to fleas and flea saliva that they require special medications to relieve itchiness and skin sores and would benefit from year round flea control. Fleas also carry a certain type of tape worm and many times we will recommend that if your pet has a flea problem to deworm them at the same time.

While the temperatures go down and deep freezes do kill fleas outside, remember they can survive all year round in a warm, inside environment. If you have any further questions about fleas or the best fleas control for your pet, please contact CCVH.