Flea Identification & Prevention
What are fleas?
Fleas are tiny parasites, about the size of a speck of dirt, that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals. They are dark, reddish-brown insects that have hard bodies. Adult fleas are wingless, have six legs, and two antennae. Their long, powerful back legs allow these pests to jump onto a host or out of danger. Fleas prefer to feed on animals, including our dogs and cats. However, if their animal hosts are not available, they will feed on people.
While these pests are often associated with pet owners, fleas can become a nuisance on any property, whether pets are present or not. The two most common types of fleas living in Honolulu are the dog flea and cat flea.
Are fleas dangerous?
Fleas are unwanted pests. Their bites are itchy and uncomfortable for both people and animals, and constant scratching may lead to secondary infections. Fleas are capable of spreading some pathogens that cause disease. The dog flea spreads flea tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum) to both people and animals. The ability to spread disease and parasites makes fleas not only unwanted pests but dangerous pests.
Another concern with fleas is pets that become heavily infested with these parasites may develop anemia, which will make them very weak and ill.
Why do I have a flea problem?
The year-round warm, tropical climate of Hawaii not only allows people to thrive but fleas as well. Fleas living in Honolulu can become a problem in any outdoor space where pets or wild animals come and go. Parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, dog parks, athletic fields, and our yards are all places fleas live successfully.
Once fleas jump onto you or your pets, they can easily be brought inside where they will continue their life cycle. Another way fleas get into homes is by coming inside on used furniture or rugs.
Fleas are prolific breeders, and if even a few gain access into your home, it can lead to a large scale infestation.
Where will I find fleas?
Fleas spend most of their life on their host. When not on an animal host, fleas choose damp, shady areas to hide in and wait for a new host to happen along that they can jump onto and use as a host.
Outdoors, fleas are found in tall grass, under leaves, and in sandy, damp soil. Inside of homes and other structures, fleas hide in rugs, the cracks in floors, behind baseboards, in upholstered furniture, and bedding.
How do I get rid of fleas?
If you have discovered fleas in your yard or home, the best way to get rid of them and prevent them from returning is to reach out to Able Pest Management, LLC. Our team will come to your aid and develop a pest control program that is customized to meet the unique needs of your home and family.
Our highly trained and experienced professionals are passionate about eliminating pests through our proven treatment methods. If you are looking for exceptional pest control for your Honolulu home or business, reach out to Able Pest Management today!
How can I prevent fleas in the future?
Keep fleas out of your Honolulu home and away from your family with the help of Able Pest Management and the following flea prevention tips:
- Treat pets year-round with a flea-preventative product under the guidance of a veterinarian.
- Routinely groom and bathe pets using a flea shampoo.
- Vacuum your home daily, especially in areas where your pets spend the most time.
- Regularly wash pet bedding.
- Do not buy used rugs or upholstered furniture for your home.
- If possible, keep pets off of upholstered furniture and beds.
- Keep your grass cut short.
- Cut back overgrown vegetation on your property.
- Deter wild animals from your property by getting rid of easy access to food sources; remove bird feeders, uneaten pet food, and place tight-fitting lids on trash cans and recycling bins.
Why Choose Able Pest Management?
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Safe & Effective Treatments
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Trained & Certified Techs
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Customer Care Focused
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Over 20 Years of Experience
What Our Customers Are Saying
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“The team at Able Pest Management is knowledgeable, professional, and thorough. They effectively took care of our ant problems, inspecting and spraying both inside and outside. We're glad to have our contract with them!”- Lisa M.
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- Jenn M.
Since I switched to Able Pest Control, my home has been mostly bug free. That was not the case with my former company. The workers are very polite and accommodating. Service is very good. Joshua was excellent
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- Linda T.
Arnel and Forest took such good care of us! They were on time, friendly, polite, knowledgeable and efficient in their work. I would highly recommend Able Pest Control to all my friends. -
- Sherry S.
If you are looking for a way to rid your home of unwanted pests, LOOK NO FURTHER. When I first moved into our home, it was full of roaches and centipedes. I tried all the over-the-counter customary remedies, but to no avail. That's when someone suggested that I contact Able Pest Management. From my initial contact to the first visit with the technician, the staff at Able Pest has been amazing!! My technician took time to explain to me the plan of action, then followed up with me each month to make certain that my unwanted insects remained in their habitats! I am so thankful to say that I no longer have a problem with insects invading my space! I absolutely love that I can turn on the lights in any room in my house and no longer see little bugs scattering. Thank you Able Pest for giving me back my peace of mind!! The service rates are so reasonable, the scheduling is flexible, and the online payment portal is fast and convenient! This is truly one of the best investments I have made!!
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- Jamie L.
We really appreciate Arnel’s friendly and punctual service. He’s great at communicating his arrival time and is a good listener when we have pest issues. We recommend Able Pest for all your pest control needs!
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- Jenna S.
You cannot go wrong with this company- they are communicative, professional, and friendly. Plus we haven't had a mouse problem in a while- they really keep on top of it. Donovan is the best- he always makes sure we haven't had any issues and i feel very comfortable with him visiting the house.
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- Cynthia Q.
Joshua constantly kept me informed as to the time he would be here. I liked that. He was professional, friendly, and expedient. He also gave some pointers and answered my questions. I am happy with your services.
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“We've been using Able Pest Management for years without any issues! The team is always friendly, listens to our needs, and provides the best customer service. Able Pest Management has been consistently awesome. Great team!”- Chassis S.
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