The Flea Dilemma: Weather, Resistance, and Rising Numbers
- PGM & Son Pest Control
- Jul 11, 2025
- 2 min read
Fleas on the Rise in Herefordshire and Worcestershire
We’ve seen record numbers of fleas call-outs over the last few years.
Examining Rentokil's Alarming Statistics
Seemingly a national problem, this month Rentokil reported seeing a rise in flea infestations by nearly half (47%) in just one year.
Rentokil believe the unusual weather is the cause of this sharp increase with June 2023 being the warmest since 1884 followed by a wet July which saw above average rainfall of 170%.
Insights from Phil Martin of PGM & Son Pest Control
Phil Martin owner of PGM & Son Pest Control thinks there’s more to it than just the weather! “A lot of customers who regularly de-flea their pets have been experiencing flea infestations, and this didn’t make sense to begin with. But, our theory is that fleas are possibly becoming resistant to DIY and vet flea treatments, and this is causing fleas to move easily from pet to pet, even where owners routinely administer flea treatments."
Although weather conditions provide an ideal condition for fleas to thrive, we’re not convinced that this is the reason for the sharp increase in fleas across the county
As pest controllers, we rotate treatment solutions to ensure that resistance doesn’t build up but vets don’t seem to do this so this could be one reason why pets which have been treated for fleas are still succumbing to them.”
Summing Up the Factors Contributing to Flea Outbreaks
Fleas can be difficult to treat and very distressing for customers; flea bites can cause painful itching and rashes and seeing fleas jumping around can be alarming.
Ridding a home of fleas can be a frustrating and costly endeavor. Unlike some pests encountered around the home, fleas cause discomfort and irritation to both pets and people.
They account for more than half of all dermatological conditions requiring veterinary assistance, and even a single flea bite to a hypersensitive animal or person may cause intense itching and irritation.
It would be a grave mistake to think of the flea as simply a nuisance
For professional flea control across Herefordshire and Worcestershire call PGM & Son Pest Control on 01981 540088 or use our AI Pest Assist facility at the bottom of your screen.
Check out some of our other blog post on Fleas!
Read our Pest Trumps all about The Flea, click on the image.
