Is your home infested with fleas? Or worse, is your poor pet bearing the brunt of it? Fleas are tiny-sized bugs that thrive in warm and moist environments, and once they’re there, it can be hard to get them out. These insects hide in bedding, carpets, curtains, grass, sofas, and crawl spaces. Also, flea bites are the worst! If you don’t have the best eyesight, you probably won’t even notice the bite until the itch starts setting in.
While flea bites are mostly harmless for humans, they can be followed by a rash. Contrarily, animals have a tougher time coping with a flea infestation – read more at https://dogstruggles.com/. Because they cause extreme discomfort, animals tend to itch the affected area, gradually damaging their skin and developing a bacterial infection.
To get rid of fleas, you need to get some sort of pesticide treatment. Otherwise, the pesky bugs will continue to invade more spaces within your living space.
Raid Flea Spray -How Long Does It Take To Dry
Firstly, what is Raid flea spray
Raid flea spray is one of the most popular insecticides on the market. The product contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) that prevents fleas from laying eggs. This ingredient remains active for months and stops larva from developing into adult fleas.
At the moment, there are two variants available: the fogger as well as the carpet and room spray. As the name suggests, the latter is used for beddings and carpets. Thus, when you know the area of the infestation, this variant is a good choice. You simply have to spray it on, and it will prevent a second infestation for around four additional months.
Generally, exposure to insecticides should be limited at all times. However, the carpet and room spray is perfect for when you don’t want the product to reach unintended areas. The fogger, however, is the ideal solution for when you don’t know how far the infestation has spread. It is best suited for large spaces and offers maximum coverage. In that, it can successfully reach nooks and crannies of each room. The Raid fogger spray can protect your home from fleas for up to four months.
Typically, Raid flea spray takes up to 2 hours to dry completely, during which time humans and animals should not enter the treated area.
How to use Raid flea spray
- Shake the bottle before spraying, this ensures that any deposits settled at the bottom are thoroughly mixed.
- Point the canister at the affected area, make sure to maintain distance between your face and the direction of the spray.
- If you’re using the fogger, wear a mask while spraying in the infested room. Also, make sure that the product gets in all the corners and crawl spaces so that the treatment is completely effective.
- Let the spray dry for at least two hours, and vacate the area.
Is your pet infested too
More often than not, a flea infestation is brought inside homes because of animals.
As a pet owner, you need to be careful when it comes to finding out whether your dog or cat is suffering from flea issues.
Undoubtedly, if your pet is constantly scratching its fur, it may be concerning. While most adult fleas are easy to spot, the little ones, especially when embedded in fur cannot be detected without a little effort. In any case, if there are larvae, there need to be at least a few adult fleas on your pet’s skin. If you pay close attention, you will come across them at some point.
Another way to check is by inspecting your pet’s bedding or sleeping space. Fleas are notorious for leaving behind a dry substance that almost looks like dirt. If you have noticed it then you’ll want to invest in a flea spray for carpets. Naturally, if there is residue on the upholstery your pet uses, and the poor creature can’t help but pull at its fur, the answer is obvious.
Is the spray safe for animals?
Using pesticides can be harmful to humans as well as animals when sufficient caution is not exercised. That said, Raid does mention on their website that their flea killer spray (not fogger!) can be used on pets. Although we recommend sticking to a flea treatment.
Doing so, however, should be done with extreme care. The procedure is fairly simple. It involves the same steps as those outlined for a home infestation except, of course, you’re dealing with a living creature that can suffer from being exposed to the insecticide.
Preferably, you should take a trip to the vet instead of trying to kill the fleas at home. If your pet has had the infestation for a long time, it may have also developed a bacterial infection that might require immediate antibiotic treatment.
In any case, you do not want to risk getting the product in your pet’s eyes or mouth. And since many animals – particularly dogs – have a habit of licking themselves, it can be a potential health hazard. Remember, even the manufacturers warn against using Raid flea spray on young, pregnant, or ill dogs.
If you are currently giving your pet medication for some diagnosed health problem, don’t do anything before consulting a vet. Pesticides can aggravate certain conditions, such as respiratory diseases, infections, and more.
Additionally, when spraying, make sure to cover your dog’s eyes to prevent irritation. Keep in mind, exposure to chemicals can have long term health implications. If you notice that your dog is exhibiting a reaction to the insecticide, thoroughly wash it with soap and water, and contact a vet immediately.
The Verdict
Getting rid of fleas is no easy business. They’re unhygienic, uncomfortable, and cause a lot of disruption. However, insecticide treatments like Raid spray do offer a viable solution. Or, you can choose to hire someone for a professional service.
Needless to say, you should limit your exposure to the chemical, wear a mask while spraying, and reenter the treated space only after the product has dried. Once you’re done, dispose of the canister according to the instructions mentioned on the packaging, and thoroughly wash your hands. Remember, insecticides should always be handled with caution.
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