How can fleas be eliminated from a dog at home?

Understanding the Flea Problem

Identifying Flea Infestation

Common Symptoms in Dogs

Fleas cause unmistakable signs that appear before a full infestation becomes evident. Recognizing these indicators enables effective at‑home control measures.

Excessive scratching, especially around the neck, tail base, and belly.
Red, inflamed skin patches where fleas bite.
Small black specks (flea dirt) on the coat or bedding, which turn reddish when wet.
Hair loss in localized areas due to irritation.
Restlessness or frequent licking of paws and ears.
Sudden weight loss or poor coat condition when infestation is severe.

Each symptom reflects the dog’s reaction to flea saliva or the presence of parasites. Early detection allows owners to apply topical treatments, oral medications, or natural remedies safely within the household environment, preventing the spread of fleas to other pets and the living space.

Visual Inspection Methods

Visual inspection is the first practical step in confirming an infestation and directing treatment. Begin by placing the dog on a clean surface with good lighting. Part the fur with fingers or a fine‑tooth flea comb, starting at the tail base and moving toward the head. Hold the comb at a 45‑degree angle to the skin; each stroke should pull out any attached insects, eggs, or debris. Examine the comb’s teeth after each pass; live fleas appear as dark, jumping insects, while flea dirt resembles tiny specks of black pepper.

Next, focus on typical hotspots: the neck, behind the ears, under the belly, groin, and the base of the tail. Use a magnifying glass if necessary to detect tiny adult fleas or larvae hidden in dense coats. Look for redness, irritation, or small bite lesions that often accompany flea activity. If the dog has a short coat, run a gloved hand over the skin to feel for moving parasites.

A systematic visual check can be documented with a simple checklist:

Coat sections inspected (neck, back, tail, limbs, groin).
Number of fleas observed per comb pass.
Presence of flea dirt on fur or skin.
Signs of skin irritation or bite marks.
Any live larvae or eggs found in bedding or surrounding area.

Completing this assessment provides a clear baseline for home‑based flea control measures and helps evaluate the effectiveness of subsequent interventions.

Flea Dirt Detection

Flea dirt detection provides a reliable indicator of an infestation and guides effective home treatment. The dark specks found on a dog’s coat are flea feces, composed mainly of digested blood. Their presence confirms that adult fleas are feeding and reproducing.

To identify flea dirt, follow these steps:

Part the fur on the neck, base of the tail, and belly; use a white cloth or paper towel to collect any specks.
Place the collected material on a damp white surface; allow it to sit for a few minutes.
Observe the specks: if they turn reddish‑brown when moistened, they are flea feces; if they remain black, they are likely debris or environmental dirt.

Positive detection warrants immediate action. Begin with a thorough bath using a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo, then apply a spot‑on or oral product suitable for home use. Repeat the detection test after treatment to verify reduction; persistent flea dirt indicates the need for additional interventions such as environmental cleaning, vacuuming, and washing bedding at high temperatures.

Consistent monitoring of flea dirt throughout the treatment cycle ensures that the infestation is being eliminated and prevents re‑infestation.

Immediate Flea Removal from Your Dog

Bathing Your Dog

Choosing the Right Flea Shampoo

Selecting an effective flea shampoo is a critical step in controlling an infestation without leaving the house. The product must contain an active ingredient proven to kill adult fleas and disrupt their life cycle, such as pyrethrins, permethrin (for dogs only), or a combination of insect growth regulators like methoprene. Verify that the label specifies a concentration sufficient to penetrate the fur and reach the skin, typically 0.5%–1% for pyrethrins and 0.1%–0.2% for permethrin.

Consider the dog’s size, coat type, and any known sensitivities. A formula designed for short‑haired breeds may not coat a thick double coat evenly, reducing efficacy. For animals with skin conditions or allergies, choose a hypoallergenic shampoo free of fragrances, dyes, and harsh detergents.

Check for additional benefits that support overall health:

Antiseptic agents (e.g., chlorhexidine) that reduce secondary bacterial infections.
Conditioning additives (e.g., oatmeal) that soothe irritation caused by flea bites.
Water‑soluble formulation that rinses completely, preventing residue buildup.

Confirm that the shampoo is approved by a reputable veterinary authority (e.g., FDA, EMA) and that the manufacturer provides clear usage instructions, including recommended soaking time and frequency of re‑application during an active outbreak. A product meeting these criteria maximizes flea elimination while safeguarding the dog’s comfort and skin integrity.

Step-by-Step Bathing Process

A thorough bath is a primary method for reducing a dog’s flea population without professional intervention. The process must combine proper preparation, effective product use, and post‑bath care to maximize flea mortality and prevent re‑infestation.

Gather a flea‑specific shampoo approved for canine use, a fine‑toothed flea comb, towels, a non‑slip mat, and a mild conditioner if the dog’s coat is long.
Brush the coat gently to remove loose debris and detangle mats; this allows the shampoo to reach the skin.
Fill a tub or basin with lukewarm water, ensuring the temperature is comfortable for the animal.
Wet the dog completely, avoiding the eyes and ears.
Apply the flea shampoo according to the label, lathering from neck to tail, paying special attention to the neck, underbelly, tail base, and between the toes where fleas hide.
Massage the lather for the recommended contact time (typically 5–10 minutes) to allow the insecticide to act.
Rinse thoroughly with clean lukewarm water, confirming that no shampoo residue remains, as residue can irritate skin.
Dry the dog with a clean towel; for thick coats, use a low‑heat setting on a hair dryer, keeping the airflow moving to prevent overheating.
Immediately comb the dry coat with the flea comb, collecting dead fleas and eggs; dispose of them in soapy water.
Apply a post‑bath conditioner if needed, then reward the dog for cooperation.

Consistent execution of this bathing routine, combined with regular environmental cleaning, significantly lowers flea numbers and supports long‑term control at home.

Post-Bath Grooming

After bathing, the grooming routine plays a critical role in eradicating fleas from a canine companion. The warm water and shampoo loosen adult insects and eggs, but thorough post‑wash care ensures that any remaining parasites are removed and the environment is less hospitable to reinfestation.

First, gently towel‑dry the dog to prevent fleas from re‑hiding in damp fur. While the coat is still slightly moist, apply a flea‑comb with fine teeth. Move the comb from the skin outward, pausing at each snag to lift and discard the insect. Dispose of collected fleas in a sealed container to avoid re‑contamination.

Second, inspect high‑risk areas—neck, tail base, underbelly, and between the pads. Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to extract fleas and eggs from the skin surface and from the surrounding environment. Immediately empty the vacuum bag or canister into a plastic bag and seal it.

Third, apply a topical flea treatment recommended by a veterinarian. Ensure the product is spread evenly across the skin, not merely the fur, to target immature stages that may have survived the bath.

Fourth, wash all bedding, toys, and grooming tools in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry them on high heat. This step eliminates dormant eggs and larvae that could re‑infest the animal.

Finally, repeat the combing process daily for the next five days. Flea life cycles can span several days; consistent removal prevents the emergence of new adults.

Towel‑dry thoroughly
Comb with fine‑toothed flea comb
Vacuum high‑risk zones
Apply veterinarian‑approved topical treatment
Launder bedding and tools in hot water
Continue daily combing for five days

Adhering to this structured post‑bath regimen maximizes flea eradication while minimizing reliance on chemical interventions.

Manual Flea Removal

Using a Flea Comb

A flea comb provides a direct method for removing adult fleas and eggs from a dog’s coat. The fine, tightly spaced teeth capture parasites as the comb is drawn through the fur, allowing immediate disposal.

Choose a stainless‑steel comb with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm. Ensure the handle is comfortable for extended use and the teeth are sharp enough to grip fleas without tearing hair.

Part the coat in sections, starting at the tail and moving toward the head.
Glide the comb slowly against the grain of the hair, pulling each stroke toward the skin.
After each pass, wipe the teeth on a damp cloth or dip them in soapy water to dislodge captured insects.
Inspect the collected material; live fleas appear as dark specks, while eggs are lighter and oval.
Repeat the process on all body areas, paying special attention to the neck, back, and hindquarters.

After each session, clean the comb thoroughly with hot, soapy water and rinse well. Dry the tool to prevent residual moisture that could attract new pests. Examine the dog’s skin for irritation or secondary infections, and treat any findings promptly.

Regular combing, at least twice daily during an active infestation, reduces flea numbers and limits reproduction. Combine this mechanical approach with environmental cleaning and appropriate topical treatments for comprehensive control.

Safe Disposal of Fleas

Effective flea eradication requires more than treating the animal; it also demands careful removal of the insects from the household. After a topical or oral medication kills fleas, the dead specimens and their eggs must be disposed of in a way that prevents re‑infestation and protects human health.

Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery. Immediately empty the vacuum canister or replace the bag, seal it in a plastic bag, and discard it in an outdoor trash container.
Wash the dog’s bedding, blankets, and any fabric items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 30 minutes. Dry on the highest heat setting or place items in a sealed bag for later laundering.
Scrape and clean pet‑owner furniture, such as dog crates and carrier trays, using hot, soapy water. Rinse, dry, and store in a sealed container if not used immediately.
Collect any visible dead fleas from floors or surfaces with a damp paper towel. Place the towel in a sealed bag before trash disposal.
Dispose of all used cleaning materials, such as disposable gloves and mop heads, in sealed bags to avoid accidental spread.

In addition to the physical removal, treat the environment with a low‑toxicity insect growth regulator (IGR) spray on baseboards, cracks, and crevices. Follow the product’s instructions for safe application and ventilation. By combining thorough cleaning, proper containment, and targeted environmental treatment, the flea population is eliminated without exposing occupants to hazardous chemicals.

Topical Flea Treatments

Over-the-Counter Options

Over‑the‑counter products provide the quickest way for pet owners to control a flea infestation without veterinary prescription.

Flea shampoos contain insecticidal agents that kill adult fleas on contact. Apply to a wet coat, lather thoroughly, and rinse after the recommended dwell time (usually 5–10 minutes). Repeat weekly until the environment is cleared, then switch to maintenance products.

Spot‑on treatments deliver a measured dose of adulticide and larvicide directly onto the skin. One application per month covers the entire body surface. Ensure the dog is dry and calm before applying to prevent runoff. Choose formulations labeled for the dog’s weight class.

Oral tablets or chewables provide systemic action, killing fleas after they feed. Dosage is based on weight; most brands require a single dose every 30 days. Verify that the product is safe for the dog’s age and health status before administration.

Flea sprays are convenient for rapid treatment of the coat and bedding. Spray the fur from a distance of 6–8 inches, avoid the eyes and nose, and allow the product to dry before grooming. Reapply according to label instructions, typically every 7–10 days.

Collars release a low‑dose vapor that repels and kills fleas for several months. Fit the collar snugly around the neck, trimming excess material. Replace the collar after the indicated period, usually 6–8 months.

Powders and powders‑in‑a‑spray form can be dusted onto the coat and bedding. Apply a thin layer, rub gently, and brush out excess particles. Use only products specifically formulated for dogs to avoid skin irritation.

When selecting any OTC option, read the label for active ingredients, contraindications, and age limits. Verify that the product is approved for canine use and matches the pet’s weight. Monitor the dog for signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or lethargy, and discontinue use if adverse reactions occur. Combining a topical or oral product with regular environmental cleaning—vacuuming carpets, washing bedding, and treating the home with a flea spray—maximizes effectiveness and prevents re‑infestation.

Prescription Treatments

Prescription treatments provide rapid, reliable control of flea infestations on dogs when used according to veterinary guidance.

Oral medications contain systemic insecticides that enter the bloodstream after ingestion. Flea larvae feeding on the dog’s blood are killed within hours, breaking the life cycle. Common active ingredients include afoxolaner, fluralaner, and nitenpyram. Dosage is calculated by weight; a single dose often protects for up to 12 weeks, while rapid‑kill products may require weekly administration.

Topical spot‑on products deliver insecticidal compounds through the skin and coat. Ingredients such as selamectin, imidacloprid, or fipronil spread across the body surface, killing adult fleas on contact and preventing new infestations for up to a month. Application to a small area on the neck or between the shoulder blades ensures even distribution without ingestion.

Prescription flea collars release a controlled dose of active agents over several months. Collars containing flumethrin or imidacloprid maintain consistent plasma levels, providing continuous protection while the dog moves freely.

Safety considerations include:

Confirming the dog’s weight and health status before prescribing.
Avoiding simultaneous use of multiple flea products to prevent toxic overload.
Monitoring for adverse reactions such as vomiting, lethargy, or skin irritation; report any signs to a veterinarian promptly.
Keeping medications out of reach of children and other pets.

Effective flea eradication combines the chosen prescription treatment with environmental measures: washing bedding, vacuuming carpets, and treating the home with a veterinarian‑approved spray if needed. Following the prescribed schedule and adhering to dosage instructions maximizes efficacy and minimizes the risk of resistance.

Proper Application Techniques

Effective flea eradication begins with precise application of the chosen product. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage chart, adjust for the dog’s weight, and apply the treatment to a clean, dry coat.

Choose a spot between the shoulder blades; this area is difficult for the dog to reach and allows the medication to spread through the skin.
Part the fur with a fingertip, press the applicator directly onto the skin, and release the entire dose in one steady motion.
Avoid contact with the dog’s eyes, nose, and mouth; wash hands thoroughly after handling the product.

When using oral tablets:

Verify the exact number of tablets required for the animal’s weight; split tablets only if the manufacturer permits.
Offer the tablet with a small amount of food or a treat to ensure swallowing; monitor for regurgitation.
Record the administration time to maintain the recommended interval between doses.

For flea shampoo:

Wet the coat completely before applying; ensure water reaches the skin.
Dispense the shampoo into the palm, work it into a lather, and massage from the neck to the tail, covering the entire body.
Rinse thoroughly; residual soap can irritate the skin and reduce efficacy.

Environmental sprays and powders:

Apply product to the dog’s bedding, carpeted areas, and any surfaces where the animal rests.
Use a calibrated spray nozzle to distribute an even mist; avoid oversaturation.
Allow treated areas to dry before allowing the dog back into the space; repeat according to label instructions.

Consistent adherence to these techniques maximizes product performance, reduces the risk of resistance, and accelerates flea elimination in a home setting.

Eradicating Fleas from Your Home Environment

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home

Vacuuming Thoroughly

Thorough vacuuming removes adult fleas, eggs, and larvae from the environment where a dog spends time, reducing the chance of reinfestation.

Use a vacuum equipped with a high‑efficiency filter to capture microscopic stages.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and floor seams in slow, overlapping strokes; repeat each pass at least twice.
Target upholstered furniture, especially seams and cushions where fleas hide.
Clean dog bedding, blankets, and any fabric the animal contacts; place items in the vacuum bag or container.
Attach a hose nozzle to reach crevices, baseboards, and the underside of furniture legs.

After each session, empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed trash bag and discard it outdoors. Wash or replace the filter according to manufacturer instructions to maintain suction power and prevent flea escape. Perform this routine daily for the first week, then every other day for two weeks, and weekly thereafter to sustain a flea‑free environment.

Washing Bedding and Linens

Washing bedding and linens removes flea eggs, larvae, and pupae that have fallen from the dog, preventing re‑infestation.

Collect all washable items that the dog has used: blankets, pet beds, pillowcases, towels, and any removable covers.
Separate these from human laundry to avoid cross‑contamination.
Use hot water of at least 130 °F (54 °C); this temperature kills all life stages of the parasite.
Add a regular detergent; for added protection, include a small amount of an insecticidal laundry additive approved for pets.
Run a full wash cycle, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat exposure destroys any surviving fleas and eggs.

If hot water or high‑heat drying is unavailable, steam‑clean the items or place them in direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet radiation and heat are lethal to the parasite.

After laundering, store clean bedding in sealed containers until the dog’s environment is treated, then return the items to the pet’s sleeping area. This routine, repeated weekly during an outbreak, eliminates residual flea populations and supports overall control measures.

Steam Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

Steam cleaning carpets and upholstery directly attacks flea eggs, larvae, and adult insects that have fallen from the dog’s coat. The high temperature of the steam (typically above 150 °C) destroys the exoskeletons of all life stages, preventing re‑infestation from the environment. Because fleas spend a significant portion of their life cycle off the host, treating indoor fabrics is essential for a comprehensive eradication strategy.

Effective steam‑cleaning procedure:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture thoroughly to remove adult fleas and debris before steaming.
Fill the steam cleaner with clean water; allow it to reach the recommended temperature.
Apply steam slowly, overlapping each pass to ensure uniform heat penetration.
Focus on areas where the dog rests, such as pet beds, cushions, and corners of carpeted rooms.
Allow treated surfaces to dry completely; moisture can attract other pests.

Regular steam treatment, combined with topical or oral flea control for the dog, reduces the flea population in the home and accelerates the elimination process.

Treating Your Yard

Identifying Flea Hotspots

Fleas concentrate on specific regions where warmth, moisture, and skin folds provide optimal conditions. Examine the dog’s neck, especially the base of the skull, where the coat is dense and skin is thin. The area behind the ears is another common site; debris and secretions accumulate, creating a favorable micro‑environment.

The abdomen, particularly the belly folds and the area around the ribs, often harbors fleas because the skin is less exposed to air. The tail base and the area surrounding the anal glands retain moisture, making them attractive to parasites. Check the groin and inner thighs; these zones are sheltered and retain heat.

Legs and paws deserve attention. Fleas hide in the fur along the inner thigh, around the knee joint, and between the pads where debris can collect. The ventral side of the tail, near the anus, is a frequent hotspot due to proximity to waste and moisture.

A systematic inspection can be performed as follows:

Run fingertips through the coat, feeling for small, moving specks.
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on each identified area, noting any live insects or dark specks (flea dirt).
Observe the skin for redness, irritation, or small bite marks, especially in the regions listed above.
Record the locations where fleas are most abundant to target treatment and cleaning efforts effectively.

Natural Yard Treatments

Effective control of fleas on a dog often begins with treating the environment where the animal spends time. Natural yard interventions reduce the flea population without chemicals, lowering the risk of reinfestation.

A well‑maintained lawn creates an inhospitable setting for flea development. Regular mowing shortens grass to a height of 2–3 inches, exposing larvae to sunlight and drying conditions that hinder their survival. Removing leaf litter, tall weeds, and organic debris eliminates sheltered breeding sites. Aerating the soil improves drainage, preventing the moist microclimate fleas prefer.

Common natural treatments include:

Diatomaceous earth – food‑grade powder spread thinly over grass and pet areas. The microscopic silica particles abrade the exoskeleton of adult fleas and larvae, causing dehydration.
Beneficial nematodes (Steinernema spp.) – microscopic worms introduced with a watering can. They seek out and infect flea larvae in the soil, breaking the life cycle.
Cedar mulch or chips – placed around the perimeter of the yard. Cedar’s natural oils repel adult fleas and discourage egg laying.
Borax – applied sparingly to dry, shaded spots where fleas hide. It acts as a desiccant similar to diatomaceous earth.
Herbal sprays – solutions of diluted peppermint, rosemary, or eucalyptus oil sprayed on grass and pet bedding. The strong scents deter adult fleas from settling.

Application guidelines:

Sweep the yard to remove debris, then mow.
Distribute diatomaceous earth or borax evenly; water lightly to settle the powder without creating moisture.
Mix nematodes with water according to manufacturer instructions; irrigate the lawn thoroughly to deliver the organisms into the soil.
Lay cedar mulch in a 2‑inch layer around fence lines and garden beds.
Prepare a herbal spray (1 ml essential oil per liter of water) and mist pet resting zones daily for two weeks.

Safety considerations:

Use food‑grade diatomaceous earth to avoid respiratory irritation.
Verify that nematode species are non‑pathogenic to humans and pets.
Test a small area for any adverse reaction to essential oils before full application.

By integrating these natural measures, the yard becomes a hostile environment for fleas, supporting long‑term relief for the dog without reliance on synthetic pesticides.

Chemical Yard Treatments

Chemical yard treatments form a critical component of a comprehensive flea‑control strategy for pets kept indoors. By targeting the adult insects and developing stages in the environment, these products reduce the likelihood of reinfestation on the dog.

Effective products fall into two categories:

Residual insecticides: synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin) applied as a spray or granules. They remain active for several weeks, killing fleas that contact treated surfaces.
Growth‑regulating agents: insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. These chemicals prevent larvae from maturing, interrupting the life cycle.

Application guidelines:

Clear debris, leaves, and pet bedding from the yard before treatment.
Follow label instructions for dilution and coverage; overdosing can harm non‑target organisms and increase toxicity risk.
Apply the product evenly across shaded areas, under fences, and around pet shelters where fleas congregate.
Allow the treated surface to dry before allowing the dog back onto the yard, typically 30 minutes for sprays and 2–4 hours for granules.
Re‑treat according to the product’s residual period, usually every 2–4 weeks during peak flea season.

Safety considerations:

Keep pets and children away from treated zones until the product has dried.
Store chemicals in a locked, temperature‑controlled area to prevent accidental exposure.
Choose formulations labeled for use around animals; avoid products containing organophosphates or carbamates unless veterinary guidance is obtained.

Integrating chemical yard treatments with regular grooming, topical spot‑on medications, and frequent vacuuming creates a multi‑layered defense, ensuring the dog remains flea‑free within the home environment.

Preventing Re-infestation

Regular Flea Prevention for Your Dog

Regular flea prevention protects your dog’s health and reduces the need for emergency treatments. Consistent application of preventive measures creates an environment where fleas cannot establish a breeding cycle.

Apply a veterinarian‑recommended monthly topical or oral flea control product. These agents interrupt the flea life cycle by killing adult fleas and preventing eggs from hatching.
Use a flea‑comb daily to remove any emerging insects and to inspect the coat for signs of infestation.
Bathe the dog weekly with a flea‑specific shampoo. This reduces adult flea numbers and alleviates irritation.
Wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (at least 130 °F) weekly. Heat destroys eggs, larvae, and pupae that may be hidden in fabric.
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet areas thoroughly every two days. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation.
Maintain a well‑trimmed yard; keep grass short and eliminate tall weeds where fleas thrive. Treat outdoor areas with an appropriate insect growth regulator if the local climate supports flea development.

Schedule regular veterinary check‑ups to verify the effectiveness of the chosen prevention plan and to adjust products as the dog ages or its health status changes. Monitoring weight, skin condition, and behavior provides early warning of any resurgence, allowing swift corrective action without resorting to intensive home remedies.

Maintaining Home Hygiene

Effective flea control begins with a clean living environment. Fleas lay eggs in the dog’s bedding, carpet fibers, and upholstery; removing these stages interrupts the life cycle and reduces reinfestation.

Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
Launder towels, blankets, and any fabric the dog contacts, using the hottest cycle the material permits.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, focusing on seams and edges where eggs may accumulate. Immediately empty the vacuum canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
Mop hard floors with a detergent solution, then follow with a flea‑specific spray or powder designed for indoor use. Apply according to the product label, ensuring coverage of cracks, baseboards, and under furniture.

Regular maintenance sustains a flea‑free zone. Perform weekly vacuuming, wash pet bedding biweekly, and inspect the home for signs of flea activity after each treatment. Consistent hygiene eliminates the environmental reservoir that allows fleas to survive and re‑infest the dog.

Monitoring for New Flea Activity

After an initial flea treatment, continuous observation is essential to confirm that the infestation has ceased and to detect any resurgence promptly. Inspect the dog’s coat, skin, and bedding daily during the first week, then reduce to every other day for the next two weeks. Look for live insects, small dark specks (flea feces), or intense scratching that may indicate lingering activity.

Key indicators of renewed infestation:

Flea movement on the fur or skin
Tiny black particles (flea dirt) on the coat or bedding
Sudden increase in the dog’s scratching or biting behavior
Presence of eggs or larvae in the home environment

Use a fine-toothed flea comb on the dog’s neck, tail base, and hindquarters; run the comb through the hair and examine the collected material under a light source. Record findings in a simple log, noting date, location, and type of evidence. If any sign appears, repeat the chosen home‑based control method immediately and reassess the environment for hidden stages, such as carpet seams or pet furniture, to prevent re‑infestation.