Did you wake up in your Chantilly home to find the telltale signs of bed bugs on your body? Are you worried that your furry friend – your cat or your dog – will be next? This post will give you the facts on bed bugs and your pet.

Is my pet at risk?

Many people make the mistake of equating bed bugs with fleas, worrying that these minuscule pests might take residence on their pet’s body. The truth is, bed bugs generally only come at night to feed, then retreat to their hiding spots during the day.

It’s also important to remember that bed bugs prefer “easy-access” food sources, like your exposed skin, as opposed to the fur-covered skin of a dog or a cat. So even if you share a bed with your pet, they’re far less likely to get bites than you are.

That being said, bed bugs have been known to feed on any animal food source, including cats, birds, mice, and dogs. When it gets to the point that your pets are being bitten, you have a pretty big problem.

How do I know if my dog is experiencing bed bugs?

Bites on dogs and cats look similar to the ones on humans – protruding marks that resemble chicken pox or large mosquito bites. If you find bites and see your pet scratching or acting irritated, your pet is probably being affected by your infestation.

What can I do if my pet has been affected?

If your pet has any plush toys or bedding, launder all of these in the hottest possible setting on your washing machine, then dry them on high heat. This will ensure that any bed bugs nesting in your pet’s things are eliminated. If a bed has holes or tears, seal it up in plastic and dispose of it entirely.

Once again, it’s important to remember that if your pet has a problem, your home has a bigger one. Make sure to call a professional to rid your home completely of bed bugs so you – and your pet – can sleep better at night.

Green Pest Services uses methods that are safe for you and your family and deadly for bed bugs. Contact us today. Your pet will thank you!