How to Get Rid of Fleas Around the Yard

Overview

Removing fleas from the family pet and the house is often not enough to gain complete control of a flea infestation. Fleas must be removed from the yard so re-infestation does not take place on your pet and in your home. Flea infestation in a yard can become quite severe if the weather conditions are ideal. The fleas will bite adults and children who are in the grass or surrounding yard. According to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, flea bites account for over half of all dermatological conditions receiving veterinary treatment.

Step 1

Treat the areas of the yard that the dog or cat frequent such as the dog house, dog run, kennel area, under decks and along fence-lines. Choose an insecticide that contains chlorpyrifos or permethrin. These insecticides come in a wide variety of brands that are sold at pet centers, pet stores and some veterinarian offices. Spray the infected areas using the product. Follow the directions on the label for specific spraying instructions. Most are applied using a simple handheld hose end sprayer that is pumped to release a spray of insecticide.

Step 2

Spray kennels or dog runs for long-term infestation using products that contain what is called an IGR (insect growth regulator). These are commonly know as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. They are sold under a wide variety of brands at pet centers, pet stores and some veterinary offices. These offer long-term control for heavily infested areas. They are applied using a handheld hose end sprayer. Mix according to the directions on the insecticide label.

Step 3

Lay eucalyptus leaves around the yard--they are a natural flea repellent. Cedar chips in garden beds work well for a flea repellent. Sprinkle borax around the yard. Borax also works well at repelling fleas.

Step 4

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the yard and flower beds. Food-grade diatomaceous earth kills fleas by causing them to dehydrate. The solution is a mixture of microscopic, one-celled plant remains from oceans and lakes. It is mined and milled to sell commercially. The solution can be purchased at pet stores, garden supply stores, some health food stores and online.