How should a kennel be treated for fleas? - briefly
Use a vet‑approved flea spray or fogger inside the kennel, then launder all bedding, vacuum all surfaces, and repeat the application according to the product’s label. Seal the area for the specified contact time before allowing animals back in.
How should a kennel be treated for fleas? - in detail
Treating a flea‑infested kennel requires a systematic approach that eliminates adult insects, immature stages, and eggs while protecting the animal and the environment. Begin by removing the dog or other pet from the enclosure and placing it in a safe, flea‑free area. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat; this temperature kills all life stages.
Next, vacuum every surface of the crate, paying special attention to seams, corners, and crevices where fleas hide. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and place it in an outdoor trash container.
Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for indoor use on hard surfaces. Follow the label’s dilution ratio and safety instructions, spraying the interior walls, floor, and any non‑removable parts. Allow the product to remain wet for the contact time specified, then ventilate the area by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.
For porous materials that cannot be laundered, treat with a flea‑specific fogger or aerosol designed for indoor environments. Use the device according to manufacturer guidelines, ensuring the kennel is empty and the surrounding area is cleared of humans and animals.
After chemical treatment, repeat the vacuuming step once the surfaces are dry, then wipe them with a mild detergent solution to remove residual residues. Finally, re‑introduce the pet only after the kennel has fully dried and any required re‑entry interval on the product label has elapsed.
To prevent recurrence, maintain a regular cleaning schedule: weekly vacuuming, monthly laundering of bedding, and quarterly application of a preventative flea spray or powder approved for pet environments. Monitor the animal with a veterinarian‑recommended flea control regimen to reduce the risk of re‑infestation.