This letter is to comment on the Humane Society column recently regarding flea abatement. One of the methods mentioned, boric acid, is actually dangerous to use around children and pets. It is used as an ingredient in ant and cockroach bait, as it ruins the insect’s digestive system. However, fleas feed on blood, not household crumbs or foods as the other insects mentioned do, so it is not effective and could actually endanger pets if ingested.

Other methods of flea control include flea traps and electronic zappers, which are effective if the flea comes in contact with the apparatus, if chemical methods are not desired. One chemical method I have read about, but never tried, is oil of eucalyptus. Since this is an ingredient in some cough and cold remedies, one could assume it is non-toxic if used correctly.

Carol Olden

Olympia