Mention the word "flea" to most people who live with companion animals, and you are likely to elicit a powerful response. Fleas are parasites. They inflict annoying bites on a variety of mammalian hosts, including cats, dogs, other domestic animals, and humans. When ingested, they transmit tapeworms, and their bites can cause severe allergic reactions in some of their victims.

In mild climates, fleas are not killed by prolonged winter freezes. They thrive in moderate temperatures of 65 to 80° F and in high levels of humidity. These are common weather conditions west of the Cascades in Washington, where, predictably, fleas are also common.

Under such ideal circumstances, a female flea can lay as many as 1,000 eggs in her lifetime, so it is no wonder that beleaguered pet owners rush to use pest control products that promise instant results. However, quick fixes rarely offer safe, long-term solutions, and they may actually compromise the health of your companion animals and your immediate environment.

Flea killers contain active ingredients such as DDVP, propoxur, diazinon, and carbaryl. These nerve poisons are toxic not only to fleas, but are potentially hazardous for other animals, including humans. At least 90% of insecticide ingredients are listed collectively as "inert". These trade-secret components are not intended to kill fleas, but this does not mean that they are all safe, non-toxic, or chemically inert.

Powders, sprays, mousses and flea collars, which fleas just jump over, can subject animals to skin irritations and other reactions. Furthermore, pets breathe the vapors given off by these products and ingest particles as they groom themselves. As their name suggests, flea bombs are particularly dangerous. They contaminate all exposed surfaces, and in addition to being highly toxic, they can also be explosive.

There are products you can obtain from a veterinarian, called Advantage and Frontline. These two products begin to kill fleas on your animal immediately, and will eliminate all the fleas in your home within 5-7 days. At PAWS, the cost for Advantage is only $38, for a four-month supply, for cats and dogs of any size. PAWS does not carry Frontline. If your home is severely infested, its a good idea to have your carpets and furnitures professionally steam cleaned.

There are products (suc as Zodiac, TopSpot and BioSpot) that you will find in a grocery store, that claim to eliminate fleas the same way as Advantage and Fontline. These products may not work and can harm your pet.

Always consult your veterinarian.

Fleas are attracted to animals in a weakened or run-down condition, but they usually leave the healthier ones alone. One of the best ways to flea-proof is to improve the overall condition of your pet.

Good food is essential to good health. While it may seem more expensive at first, a high quality diet for your companion is an investment that pays off in the long run and may even be reflected in lower veterinary bills. You do not need to feed your pet as much because premium brands have concentrated nutrients with fewer fillers and preservatives, some of which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive animals.

Many veterinarians now believe that the flea allergies suffered by animals are symptomatic of poorly functioning immune systems. Often, a change in diet helps to bolster immunity, and holistic practitioners suggest adding enzymes and supplements at each feeding. High quality foods and supplements are available at veterinary clinics and specialty pet supply stores.

A simple but effective way to remove fleas from your pet is to use a flea comb. The finely spaced teeth of the comb pull out live fleas and the droppings that adhere to the animal's hair. Combing also removes the dead skin particles on which fleas feed. Keep a bowl of warm, soapy water nearby so you can drown the fleas as you catch them in the comb. How many you find during daily grooming sessions will help you assess your progress.

Fleas tend to accumulate where your pet sleeps. Bedding materials such as blankets, towels, or nearby rugs should be washed frequently.

A good vacuum cleaner is the best defense against fleas. If possible, vacuum every few days during the height of flea season in the summer and fall. This is particularly helpful in ridding the environment of flea eggs. Use a crevice tool to clean around moldings, floor boards, and other out-of-the-way places, and pay particular attention to upholstered furniture. Dispose of vacuum bags in the garbage outside of the house immediately. Severe flea infestations may require an initial shampooing or steam cleaning of rugs and upholstered furniture.

Pets who spend time outdoors are likely to bring fleas into the house. There is no practical way to eliminate fleas from the lawn without resorting to highly toxic chemicals which also kill beneficial insects and other wildlife. Small outside areas such as decks and porches where your pet spends time can be kept relatively flea-free by vacuuming. It is best to focus your efforts indoors where you have more control. If you live with cats, you can prevent flea infestations by keeping your pets safely indoors where they will not be exposed to fleas.