Flea Pest Control
- Family owned and operated
- Dependable, state-licensed flea control technicians
- Minimal chemical application with IPM service programs
- Competitive pricing, honest service
- Monthly, bi-monthly & quarterly flea control programs
Flea Control & Extermination
Now controlling Fleas in Modesto, Manteca, Oakdale & Turlock!
Fleas are a common household parasite that feed on the blood of humans, dogs and cats. Their bites cause irritation to the host and can spread disease. Fleas prefer warm, humid weather. It is common for infestations to break out during heat waves in California, even if no pets are present in the structure. Fleas have a 4 stage life cycle that makes their infestation difficult to treat. Since pesticide does not penetrate flea eggs, the egg must hatch before the flea is exposed.
Egg Stage
Female fleas lay eggs about once per hour on the host or in carpeted areas where the host spends most of its time. Eggs hatch within 1-6 days depending on heat and humidity. A flea egg can stay dormant for up to one year and if the temperature is cooler, it can take up to 6 days to hatch.
Larva Stage
Flea larvae are dependent on temperature and sensitive to light. They burrow into carpets or the host’s fur until they mature to the next stage. They feed on the excrement of adult fleas. Larvae need high humidity in order to survive and are often found in shaded areas that are moist.
Pupa Stage
In the pupa stage, mature flea larvae secrete a silk like material and spin cocoons in which to pupate. The cocoon is sticky and adheres to carpet fibers or pet fur and often looks like lint or small dirt balls. Once the formation is complete, an adult flea will emerge within about 5 days, if the conditions are right. Fleas can also sense heat and movement near their cocoons and will hatch if a host is near. Often times, cocoons are imbedded deep in carpets and pesticides cannot always reach them. This is why it is important to prepare for a flea treatment by vacuuming up to one hour before your home or office is treated.
Adult Stage
Adult fleas are able to save their energy by waiting to emerge from their cocoons until a host is near. This allows them to live for weeks or months on end. Once they are outside of the cocoon, they hop toward the host. An adult flea can live up to 174 days, if the temperature conditions are right. During this time, they feed off their host and deposit eggs, continuing the infestation.
Onstar Pest Control offers a comprehensive flea treatment program. Fleas are notoriously difficult to gain control over and it is important that all clients prepare for the service prior to treatment. Preparations include the following:
- All pets must be treated for fleas at a groomer or vets office during the flea treatment of the home.
- Clients must vacuum all carpeted areas no more than one hour before service. This will stimulate cocoons and expose more fleas to the treatment.
For the best results, Onstar Pest Control recommends beginning a preventative pest program to avoid future infestations. We offer monthly, bi-monthly and quarterly services. For more information about the service and preparation before a flea treatment, call today.
