Strange But True
Unorthodox flea trap
By SAM MAZZOTTA

DEAR PAW'S CORNER: This is in response to the column about using a bright light for flea removal. I've used a similar method to control fleas; it works especially well at night. Use a high-intensity lamp that can be directed to a specific spot. Take a relatively flat silver colored metal dish (I think a white dish will also work). Put a solution of water and liquid soap (not detergent) in the dish and put it under the light in areas where there is heavy flea traffic.

The principle is similar to that reader's method: The fleas jump toward the light and into the soapy water. Fleas can generally walk on water because they're too light to break through the surface tension of the water. But because of the soap in the water, the surface tension is reduced or removed; the fleas fall into the water and drown. - Jan S., via e-mail

DEAR JAN: The previous reader suggested using duct tape to catch the fleas. This water-dish trap sounds like another good method. Again, I want to caution readers about pointing a heat source (even just an electric light) at carpets, leaving the lamp unattended or using this method in homes with children. Exercise care and common sense when trying unorthodox flea control methods.

Flea season is just a couple of months away, and pet owners should try to get an early start on control before flea eggs hatch. In addition to a thorough spring cleaning to get rid of dust and clear corners where fleas may hide or lay eggs, take pets to be groomed and ask the veterinarian for an effective flea preventative designed specifically for your type of furry pet.

Send your tips, questions and comments to Paws Corner, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475, or email them to pawscorner@hotmail. com.

(c) 2007 King Features Synd., Inc.