Pet professionals such as groomers (who deal with dozens of flea-infested animals every day) don't have fleas in their own homes. What do they know that you don't know? Nothing, if you read these articles about flea control.
Fleas spread parasites and disease.
Bubonic plague is the most famous flea ally although its questionable how trustworthy an ally the bubonic germ is since it ultimately kills the host. However, if you get rid of the fleas you can get rid of the threat of plague too.
Additionally, one swallowed flea can lead to a daunting case of intestinal worms in dogs and cats. The tapeworm is the most common flea ally. Tapeworms count on the fleas to carry their larvae deep into enemy territory: your pet's intestine.
Tape worm segments look like a tiny piece of rice, often attached to your pet's fur in the anal area or visible in his stool. You'll have to tell your veterinarian that you actually SAW the worms. (His microscope method of detecting worm eggs won't show them.)
You'll have to deal with the tape worms during and after your battle with the fleas. Even a non-reproducing flea can carry tape worms, so this is another good reason to use a product on your pet that repels fleas as well as kills them.
Ticks aren't really an ally, but they like to inhabit the same territory and can get along with fleas quite well. Most flea-killing products will kill ticks as well, but there are some tick peculiarities that should be addressed if you find yourself in a two-fronted battle with fleas on one side and ticks on the other. More of that information will be coming soon.
Previous week: 100% Flea Control (Part 6)
Concludes: 100% Flea Control (Part 8)