### How to Protect Your Home and Pets from Fleas Fleas are not just annoying pests; they can pose serious health risks to both your family and your pets. Here's how you can identify and prevent fleas from invading your home. #### Where Fleas Hide Fleas thrive in shady and humid environments. They often hide under piles of leaves, debris, around trees, bushes, shrubs, and in tall grass. Fleas can jump up to 2 feet high and latch onto your pets as they walk by. Common areas where fleas attach to pets include the base of the tail, belly, neck, back, and ears. Trash left outside can attract wild or stray animals that carry fleas, which can then transfer to your pets and home. #### Inside Your Home Once inside, fleas may jump off your pet and hide in soft or textured areas like carpets, bedding, clothing, and furniture. They can also hide in the cracks of hardwood floors. Pay special attention to your pet's bed, as it's a prime spot for fleas to reproduce. Fleas can live from 13 days to a year and can produce millions of offspring. Flea eggs can fall off your pet and land on carpet, upholstery, bedding, and furniture. #### Signs Your Pet Has Fleas - Scratching or biting at their fur - Red or irritated skin - Flea dirt (tiny black specks) on their skin #### Health Risks Fleas feed on blood and can consume 15 times their body weight. Flea bites can be serious for puppies or kittens, potentially leading to life-threatening anemia. Fleas can also bite humans, usually on the feet, legs, calves, or ankles, causing mild symptoms like itching and redness. Fleas can transmit diseases, so watch for symptoms like fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes. #### Prevention Tips - **Outside:** Keep your yard clean by removing piles of leaves and debris. Trim bushes and shrubs and keep grass short. - **Inside:** Regularly vacuum carpets, wash pet bedding, and clean furniture. Use flea prevention products on your pets as recommended by your vet. By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and pets from the discomfort and health risks associated with fleas.