Flea Control: Keep Your Yard & Pets Flea-Free

Fleas are parasites. Fleas in the yard are a nuisance for homeowners. Flea infestations often create discomfort for pets. Effective flea control is essential to maintain a healthy outdoor environment.

Reclaim Your Yard – A Guide to Flea-Free Living

Okay, let’s be honest. Nobody likes fleas. They’re like those uninvited guests who show up to the party, crash on your couch, and then proceed to bite everyone. And unfortunately, your lovely yard can sometimes feel like a giant flea party zone!

But fear not, because a flea-infested yard isn’t a life sentence of itchy ankles and miserable pets. Think of your yard as a kingdom, and those pesky fleas as invaders trying to steal your throne of relaxation and fun. We’re here to provide you with the tools and knowledge to wage war… a responsible war, of course!

So, why is getting rid of these miniature vampires so important? Well, besides the obvious irritation of constantly scratching your legs, fleas can cause some serious health problems for your furry friends (and even you!). From allergic reactions to transmitting diseases, these tiny terrors are more than just a nuisance; they’re a health hazard.

But don’t worry, we’re not going to leave you hanging. Over the next few sections, we’re diving deep into the world of flea control. We’ll uncover their secrets, expose their weaknesses, and arm you with the knowledge to kick them out of your yard for good. Get ready to take back your outdoor space and enjoy a flea-free existence!

Understanding Your Enemy: The Flea Life Cycle and Habits

So, you want to evict those tiny freeloaders from your yard, huh? Well, you can’t defeat an enemy you don’t understand! Let’s dive into the fascinating (and slightly gross) world of fleas.

First, we need to understand that fleas aren’t just annoying little jumpers; they’re like tiny, furry ninjas with a secret weapon – an incredibly efficient life cycle. Think of it as their ultimate survival cheat code. It’s broken down into 4 key stages:

• The Egg Stage: Imagine these tiny, pearl-white eggs as the foundation of a flea army. Mamma Flea lays them on your pet, in your carpet, or—you guessed it—in your yard. These little guys aren’t sticky so they’re prone to falling off of your pets and into your lawn!

• The Larva Stage: Next up are the larvae: little, worm-like creatures that look like tiny maggots(gross!). They love dark, humid places where they can munch on organic debris and, yes, even flea dirt (we’ll get to that in a sec!).

• The Pupa Stage: This is the chrysalis stage, where the flea larvae spin themselves a silk cocoon and transform like tiny, vampiric butterflies(?). This stage can last a few days or even several months depending on the conditions.

• The Adult Stage: Ah, the dreaded adult flea. They emerge from their cocoons ready to jump onto a host and start the whole cycle all over again. These are the blood-sucking vampires you see hopping around. Yuck!

Why Understanding the Flea Life Cycle Matters

Why all this biology talk? Because knowing the enemy is half the battle! Most flea treatments only target adult fleas. If you only treat the adults, all those eggs, larvae, and pupae are just waiting for their turn to emerge and stage a comeback. To truly win the war, you have to target all stages of the flea life cycle.

Flea Dirt: The Tell-Tale Sign of Infestation

Ever wondered what those little black specks are on your pet’s fur or in their bedding? That’s flea dirt! It’s basically flea poop – digested blood. Gross, I know!. A good way to check if it’s actually flea dirt is to put the specks on a white paper towel, wet it, and rub. If it’s flea dirt, it’ll leave reddish-brown streaks on the towel, indicating it’s digested blood.

Meet the Culprits: Host Animals

Fleas need a host to survive, and they’re not picky! Here’s a breakdown of the usual suspects:

• Dogs and Cats: Your furry friends are the prime targets. Fleas hitch a ride on them, feed, and reproduce. They are the most known common carriers, and are the most likely host.

• Humans: While we’re not ideal hosts (not enough fur!), fleas will bite us if they’re hungry enough. Their bites can be itchy and irritating.

• Wildlife: Rodents, stray animals, and even the occasional opossum can bring fleas into your yard.

Know Your Flea Species

While there are many types of fleas, here are the two most common:

• Cat Fleas: Surprisingly, cat fleas are the most common type of flea, even on dogs! They’re adaptable and thrive in various environments.

• Dog Fleas: While less common than cat fleas, dog fleas are still a nuisance.

Now that you know your enemy, you’re one step closer to reclaiming your yard!

Detecting the Invasion: Is Your Yard a Flea Fiesta?

So, you suspect you’ve got fleas partying in your yard? Before you declare war, let’s confirm they’ve actually RSVP’d. Fleas are tiny ninjas, and spotting them takes a bit of detective work. We need to become flea-finders! This section will arm you with the knowledge to ID these pesky gatecrashers, interpret their calling cards, and know where they like to hang out.

Spotting the Culprits: What to Look For

First, let’s talk about identifying your suspects. We are looking at very small insects (fleas) that are typically dark brown/reddish brown and wingless, that can jump really, really high. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

• Live Fleas: If you see tiny, dark insects jumping on your pets, your socks, or any surface, chances are you’ve found your flea culprits! They’re fast and elusive, so a quick glance might not be enough.

• Flea Dirt: This isn’t garden-variety dirt. Flea dirt is actually flea poop (charming, I know!). It looks like tiny black specks that, when moistened, turn reddish-brown. Think of it as the flea equivalent of leaving breadcrumbs – a sure sign they’ve been there. Look closely to identify the fleas and signs.

• Bite Patterns: Are you or your family members suddenly sporting itchy red bumps, especially around your ankles and lower legs? Flea bites are usually small, raised, and extremely itchy. The pattern of flea bites is also important: fleas bites are usually on the lower legs and ankles.

Becoming a Flea Inspector: A Step-by-Step Yard Audit

Time to put on your inspector hat (a real one, or an imaginary one – whatever works!). We need to systematically search for flea activity in their favorite haunts.

Outdoor Pet Areas: The Prime Suspect Zone

• Resting Spots: Check where your dogs or cats love to lounge. Fleas are likely to be concentrated here, as this is where they can easily hop onto their favorite hosts.

• Play Areas: Are your pets digging in a particular spot? This could be a breeding ground for flea larvae. Look closely for flea dirt or even larvae (they look like tiny, pale worms).

Dog Houses and Kennels: Little Flea Mansions

• Inside the Structure: These enclosed spaces provide ideal conditions for fleas to thrive. Check bedding, cracks, and crevices for signs of infestation.

• Around the Entrance: Fleas may be lurking in the surrounding area, waiting for their next ride.

Decks and Under Decks: Shady Hideouts

• Underneath: This area is often dark, damp, and protected – perfect conditions for flea development. Use a flashlight to inspect thoroughly.
• On the Decking Boards: Check in between the boards, as fleas can hide here to avoid sunlight.

Gardens and Flower Beds: Unexpected Havens

• Leaf Litter and Mulch: These provide moisture and shelter for flea larvae. Rake through the debris and look for signs of flea dirt or larvae.

• Shady Areas: Fleas prefer cool, dark environments, so check under plants and in areas with dense foliage.

By following these steps, you’ll become a pro at detecting fleas in your yard. Once you’ve confirmed their presence, it’s time to move on to the next step: kicking them out!

Environmental Factors: Why Fleas Love Your Yard (Maybe a Little Too Much)

Okay, so you’re waging war against these tiny, jumping vampires. But to win, you gotta think like a flea! These little guys aren’t just randomly bouncing around; they’re picky about their living conditions. Turns out, your yard might be the flea equivalent of a luxury resort – and understanding why is half the battle. It’s all about those sweet spots of moisture, shade, and temperature.

Moisture: Fleas’ Thirst for Survival

Ever wonder why fleas seem worse after a rainy spell? Well, picture this: flea eggs and larvae are basically tiny sponges. They need moisture to survive. A dry environment? That’s a flea’s worst nightmare. Think of it like leaving a goldfish out of water – not a pretty sight (or in this case, a pretty jump). Moist areas such as that leaky sprinkler head you’ve been meaning to fix, or the perpetually damp spot under the AC unit are absolute flea havens.

Shade: Avoiding the Harsh Spotlight

Fleas are like vampires – they hate direct sunlight. Those rays can dry them out faster than you can say “bug bomb.” So, where do they hang out? You guessed it: those cool, shaded areas under bushes, decks, and trees. It’s their perfect hideout, providing a cool, dark escape from the harsh summer sun. This preference for shade allows them to conserve moisture and continue their quest for a warm-blooded host.

Damp Soil: The Nursery for Flea Larvae

You might not think much about your soil, but fleas sure do. Damp soil is the ultimate breeding ground for flea larvae. These little wigglers burrow into the damp earth, feeding on organic debris and flea dirt (a charming term for flea poop). It’s basically a flea larvae buffet! Think of that *damp soil* area under your favorite rose bushes or under the dog house? Flea-riffic!

Humidity: The Sweat Lodge for Fleas

If moisture is important, humidity is the ultimate party starter for fleas. High humidity levels create the perfect conditions for flea eggs to hatch and larvae to develop. Think of it as a giant flea incubator in your backyard. This is especially true in coastal regions or during particularly humid summers, where flea populations can explode.

Temperature: Goldilocks and the Three Flea Zones

Fleas are Goldilocks when it comes to temperature – not too hot, not too cold, but just right. They thrive in moderate temperatures, typically between 70°F and 85°F. When it gets too cold (below freezing), fleas become dormant, and when it gets too hot (above 95°F), they start to die off. This is why flea infestations tend to peak during the warmer months.

Climate and Regional Differences: A Flea’s Vacation Destination

Just like people, fleas have their favorite vacation spots, which depend on the climate and regional differences. In warmer climates, like Florida or California, flea season can last all year long. In colder climates, like Minnesota or Maine, fleas might disappear during the winter months, only to return with a vengeance in the spring. Understanding the flea climate in your area can help you prepare for seasonal outbreaks and adjust your flea control strategies accordingly.

So, there you have it! By understanding how environmental factors influence flea populations, you can take steps to make your yard less hospitable to these unwanted guests. Control the moisture, reduce the shade, and keep an eye on the temperature, and you’ll be well on your way to a flea-free paradise!

Chemical Warfare: Using Insecticides Responsibly and Effectively

Okay, so you’re ready to bring out the big guns, huh? When those pesky fleas just won’t quit, sometimes you gotta call in the chemical reinforcements. But hold your horses! It’s super important to do this the right way, both for the sake of your yard and everyone in it.

So, what are your options when you’re wading into the world of insecticides for flea control? Let’s take a peek at some common contenders!

The Usual Suspects: Insecticide Rundown

• Pyrethrins: Think of these as Mother Nature’s own flea-fighting squad. They’re derived from chrysanthemum flowers, so they’re relatively natural. They work by attacking the flea’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and death.
• Permethrin: This is like Pyrethrin’s synthetic, souped-up cousin. It hangs around longer and is a bit more potent. Same mode of action – messes with those flea nerves – but with extra staying power.
• Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): Now, these guys are sneaky! Instead of outright killing adult fleas, IGRs mess with their development. They stop flea larvae from growing into adults, breaking the dreaded flea life cycle. Think of them as population control for fleas!

Getting Down to Business: Application 101

Alright, you’ve got your weapon of choice. Now, how do you deploy it?

• Sprays: The art here is in even coverage. Picture yourself as a tiny, flea-sized rain cloud, making sure every blade of grass gets a little love.
• Granules: For these, you’ll need a spreader. It’s like fertilizing your lawn, but instead of making things grow, you’re sending fleas packing. Adjust the spreader to the recommended setting for uniform distribution, because no flea deserves to live in your property because you did not spread well.

Safety First, Always!

This is the non-negotiable part. Seriously, pay attention!

• Read. The. Label. Seriously, underline this in your brain. The product label is your bible. It tells you exactly how to use the stuff, what precautions to take, and how much to use.
• Suit up! Wear protective gear like gloves and a mask, even if it makes you look like you’re about to rob a bank.
• Keep the kids and fur babies far, far away until the treated area is completely dry. We’re talking hours, not minutes.

Nature’s Arsenal: Natural and Organic Flea Control Remedies

Okay, so you’re not a fan of the harsh chemicals? No problem! Mother Nature has a few tricks up her sleeve for kicking those pesky fleas to the curb. Think of this as your eco-friendly flea-fighting squad. Let’s dive into some natural and organic remedies that’ll have your yard flea-free without making you feel like you’re living in a science experiment.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE): The Tiny, Deadly Dust

First up, we’ve got Diatomaceous Earth, or DE for short. This stuff is basically the Kryptonite to fleas and other creepy crawlies. It’s made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. Sounds kinda weird, right? But here’s the magic: this powder is super abrasive on a microscopic level.

When fleas come into contact with DE, it scratches their waxy outer layer, causing them to dehydrate and, well, meet their maker. The best part? It’s non-toxic to humans and pets! Just make sure you’re using food-grade DE to keep everyone safe. Sprinkle it around pet areas, along fences, and anywhere you suspect fleas are lurking. Think of it as adding a little pixie dust that banishes fleas instead of granting wishes.

Nematodes: The Microscopic Mercenaries

Next, we’ve got nematodes, which are like tiny, microscopic mercenaries. These little guys are beneficial nematodes that prey on flea larvae living in the soil. That’s right, they hunt down those baby fleas before they even have a chance to hop onto your furry friends.

You just mix these microscopic warriors with water and apply them to your yard using a sprayer. They’ll burrow into the soil and start feasting on flea larvae, effectively disrupting the flea life cycle. It’s like hiring a tiny, invisible army to take care of your flea problem. How cool is that?

Cedar Chips: The Aromatic Armor

Then, there’s cedar, the original flea repellent. Fleas hate the smell of cedar! Scatter cedar chips around pet areas, under bushes, and in your landscaping to create a natural barrier that sends fleas running.

Plus, it makes your yard smell amazing! It’s like giving your yard a spa treatment that also happens to keep fleas away. A win-win!

Essential Oils: The Smelly Solution (Use With Caution!)

Finally, we have essential oils. Certain essential oils, like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus, are known to repel fleas. You can mix a few drops of these oils with water and spray them around your yard, focusing on areas where fleas are likely to hang out.

But here’s the catch: some essential oils can be toxic to pets, especially cats. So, do your research, use them sparingly, and always keep a close eye on your furry pals. When in doubt, consult with your vet before using essential oils around your pets. Think of it as adding a fragrant force field against fleas but with extreme caution.

The Power of Synergy: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies

Okay, so you’re battling fleas. You’ve got your sprays, you’ve got your powders… but are you really winning? Let’s talk about IPM, or Integrated Pest Management. Think of it as the yin and yang of flea control – a holistic approach that’s not just about nuking the little buggers, but about creating an environment where they simply don’t want to hang out. It’s like throwing a party and not inviting the fleas!

Chemical and Natural? Tell Me More!

The beauty of IPM lies in its balanced approach. Forget the “either/or” mentality. It’s about using both chemical and natural methods strategically. Did someone say tag team? We’re talking about hitting the fleas hard where they live, then following up with natural methods to keep them from staging a comeback. It’s like the one-two punch of flea control! Combining these methods gives you a more robust defence and sustainable long-term control.

Yard Maintenance and Sanitation: Your Secret Weapons

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. IPM isn’t just about what you spray; it’s about how you manage your yard. Think of your yard as a hotel for fleas. Do you want to be a five-star resort or a rundown motel?

• Regular Mowing: Keep that grass short! Fleas love tall grass because it provides shade and humidity – their happy place. Mow regularly to expose them to sunlight and dry them out.
• Removing Leaf Litter and Debris: Piles of leaves, clippings, and other debris are flea mansions. Clear them out to eliminate their breeding grounds.
• Improving Drainage: Fleas need moisture to survive. Ensure proper drainage in your yard to prevent damp areas where flea larvae thrive.

Essentially, we are doing some landscape design for our flea’s and hoping they move out! These simple yard maintenance practices can make a world of difference in your flea control efforts. When it comes to your yard, the goal here is to transform your yard from a flea’s paradise to a no-flea zone!

Protecting Your Loved Ones: Pet and Family Safety Considerations.

Okay, let’s talk safety first, because who wants to solve a flea problem only to create a bigger headache? We love our furry (and non-furry) family members, so keeping them safe during flea control is non-negotiable.

Pet-Proofing Your Flea-Fighting Strategy

First up, our pets. They’re the reason we’re battling these tiny terrors in the first place, right? So, when you’re eyeing those flea treatments, read labels carefully! Look for products specifically designed for pet safety, and when in doubt, Google is your friend with searching “pet-safe flea spray yard”. Once you have it, follow the instructions to the letter! Think of it like baking; a little too much of one ingredient, and things go south fast. After the treatment, keep your furballs away from the area until it’s completely dry. Imagine them thinking that your yard is a chocolate fountain when it’s not!

And speaking of pets, your vet is a goldmine of information. Chat with them about flea prevention options. They know your pet’s health history and can recommend the safest, most effective solutions. They may recommend a flea collar.

Kids and Chemicals: A Recipe for Caution

Now, what about the little humans running around? Kids and pesticides don’t mix well, so think of your yard as a construction zone when you’re treating it – keep those hard hats (or, in this case, kids) away! Seriously, keep them indoors during and after the treatments until everything is dry. And a mandatory hand-washing party after any potential contact with treated areas is always a good idea. Like a chef, you should keep your hands cleans.

Allergies: Not Just from Pollen Anymore

Fleas are bad, but allergic reactions to flea bites or treatments? Even worse. If someone in your family has allergies, be extra cautious. Opt for hypoallergenic flea control options and keep a close eye out for any reactions. Antihistamines are your friend, but always consult a doctor for serious reactions.

When in Doubt, Call the Pros (and Your Vet!)

Ultimately, your vet and a qualified pest control professional are your best resources for crafting a safe and effective flea control strategy. They can assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Staying Ahead: Prevention Strategies for a Flea-Free Yard

Let’s be honest, nobody wants to deal with a flea infestation. It’s way easier to keep those pesky critters from moving in, in the first place! Think of it like this: it’s much simpler to lock the door than to kick out unwanted houseguests. So, how do we keep our yard from becoming a flea paradise? The secret lies in proactive measures that make your yard less inviting to these tiny jumpers.

Yard Maintenance: A Flea’s Least Favorite Chore

Fleas love a jungle. They thrive in tall grass, overgrown bushes, and piles of leaves. It’s like their own little amusement park! To take away their fun zone:

• Mow, mow, mow your lawn. Keep that grass short and sweet. Regular mowing exposes flea larvae to sunlight and reduces humidity – two things they absolutely hate.
• Trim those bushes! Overgrown shrubs create shady, moist havens for fleas. Give them a trim to let the sunshine in.
• Rake it up! Piles of leaves and debris are flea nurseries. Rake them up regularly to eliminate breeding grounds.

Sanitation: Cleanliness is Next to Flea-lessness

Fleas need moisture and organic matter to survive and reproduce. Cutting off their resources is key to prevention:

• Eliminate Standing Water. Bird baths, clogged gutters, and puddles are flea magnets. Get rid of them.
• Tidy Up Organic Waste. Compost piles, decaying leaves, and pet waste provide food and shelter for flea larvae. Keep these areas clean and well-maintained.

Preventative Treatments: Keep Fleas at Bay

Think of this as setting up a perimeter defense system:

• Regular Flea Control Measures. Even if you don’t see fleas, consider applying flea control treatments regularly, especially during peak flea season (usually warm, humid months).
• Target Hotspots. Focus on areas where your pets spend the most time, like resting spots, play areas, and dog houses.

By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of a flea infestation and enjoy a flea-free yard all season long!

Vigilance is Key: Monitoring and Follow-Up for Long-Term Control

Okay, you’ve waged war on those pesky fleas, but don’t think you can just kick back with a lemonade just yet! Keeping a watchful eye is the secret sauce to long-term flea control. Think of it as being a diligent neighborhood watch, but for the tiny, jumpy invaders.

First up, regularly check your furry pals! They’re usually the first ones to sound the alarm (or, you know, scratch incessantly). Pay close attention to those hotspot areas: the base of the tail, around the ears, and the belly. And while you’re at it, give those common flea hangouts in your yard a peek too – under decks, shady spots, and your pet’s favorite napping zone.

Flea Traps: Your Secret Weapon!

Want to get a real sense of the flea situation without playing detective all the time? Flea traps are your new best friend. These little gadgets use light or sticky surfaces to lure in fleas, giving you a sneak peek into their population size and activity levels. Think of them as tiny flea censuses! Set them up in areas where you suspect flea activity and check them regularly. This will give you a good understanding of whether your flea control efforts are truly working.

Adjusting Your Strategy: Because Fleas Are Sneaky

Now, here’s the thing: fleas are adaptable little buggers. What works today might not work tomorrow. That’s why you need to be ready to adjust your treatment plan based on what you’re seeing. If you’re still spotting fleas despite your best efforts, it might be time to switch up your insecticide, try a different natural remedy, or focus on specific problem areas. Don’t be afraid to experiment and tweak your approach! Your monitoring efforts are the data that lets you adjust treatment plans based on monitoring results and changing conditions, so use it wisely!

The key is to stay vigilant, stay flexible, and keep those fleas on their tiny, little toes!

When to Call in the Pros: Seeking Professional Help for Severe Infestations

Okay, so you’ve tried everything, right? The sprays, the granules, maybe even a full-on Diatomaceous Earth dusting that left your yard looking like a powdered donut. You’ve become intimately acquainted with the flea life cycle, and you’re pretty sure you can identify flea dirt in your sleep. But those pesky fleas? They’re still throwing a party in your yard, and you’re definitely not on the guest list.

This is where it might be time to wave the white flag and bring in the big guns: Professional Pest Control Services. Think of it as calling in the Avengers of the bug world!

So, how do you know when it’s time to make that call? Here are a few signs:

• The infestation is out of control: If despite your best efforts, the flea population seems to be exploding rather than declining, or if the problem is persistent and you can’t get on top of the cycle, it’s time to bring in professional pest control.

• You’ve got sensitive family members or pets: Some people and animals are just super sensitive to flea bites and the treatments needed to get rid of them. If you’ve got someone like that in your household, or have other concerns about using pest control treatments, call the pros.

• You’re at your wit’s end (and maybe a little itchy): Let’s be honest, dealing with fleas is exhausting. If you’re feeling completely overwhelmed and just want someone to take care of it, that’s a perfectly valid reason to call in the professionals.

What Do Exterminators and Pest Control Companies Do?

Exterminators and Pest Control Companies are like highly trained flea ninjas. They have access to stronger, professional-grade insecticides, specialized equipment, and a wealth of knowledge about flea behavior.

• Comprehensive Assessment: A pro will start with a thorough inspection of your property to identify the source of the infestation and assess the extent of the problem. They’ll look in all the nooks and crannies where fleas love to hide.

• Targeted Treatment: Based on their assessment, they’ll develop a customized treatment plan that targets all stages of the flea life cycle. This might involve using a combination of insecticides, insect growth regulators, and other strategies.

• Expert Advice: Pest control professionals can also give you valuable advice on how to prevent future infestations, such as improving yard drainage or modifying pet habits.

• Peace of Mind: Perhaps the biggest benefit is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve got a qualified expert handling the problem. You can relax and enjoy your yard again without constantly worrying about those tiny, blood-sucking invaders!

Staying Legal: Regulatory Considerations for Pesticide Use

Let’s face it; navigating the world of pest control can sometimes feel like you’re trying to decipher ancient hieroglyphics. One area that often gets overlooked is making sure you’re playing by the rules when it comes to using pesticides. I know, it doesn’t sound like the most thrilling topic, but trust me, a little knowledge can save you a lot of headaches (and maybe even some fines!).

At the top of the food chain when it comes to regulating pesticides is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Think of them as the ultimate rule-makers. The EPA is responsible for ensuring that pesticides are used safely and don’t pose unreasonable risks to human health or the environment. They approve which pesticides can be used, how they should be applied, and what precautions you need to take. So, before you even think about spraying anything, it’s worth checking if your chosen product is EPA-approved. This information is usually found right on the product label, so give it a quick read-through!

But wait, there’s more! Don’t just assume that because a product is EPA-approved, you’re automatically in the clear. Many cities, counties, and even homeowner associations have their own set of rules and regulations about pesticide use. These local ordinances might restrict what types of pesticides you can use, where you can use them, or even require you to notify your neighbors before you start spraying. I know, it sounds like a lot to keep track of, but it’s worth doing a little research to avoid any potential penalties. Check your city’s website for the local regulations if you aren’t sure where to start!

So, there you have it! Getting rid of fleas in your yard might seem like a battle, but with a little persistence and the right tools, you can win the war. Enjoy your flea-free yard!