Ticks: What You Need To Know

Tick Facts:

– Ticks are parasitic organisms that feed on the blood of their host.

– Although commonly thought to be an insect, ticks are actually arachnids which means they are more like spiders.

– The most common ticks are the deer tick (also called blacklegged tick), the lone star tick and the dog tick.

– Ticks can be active in temperatures above 45 degrees.

– Pets and people can contract multiple diseases from a single bite.

– Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichia are all contracted by tick bites.

– Dogs are more likely to contract ticks than cats.

Top Places To Check For Ticks

1. Ears
2. Neck
3. Under Legs
4. Groin/Tail
5. Between Toes

How to remove a Tick

Use tweezers to grip the tick as closely to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upward and try to keep the tick intact,. Leaving the head or any body parts in the skin can lead to an infection. Do not touch the tick with your hands as they can carry many diseases. Place the tick into a sealed container and mark the date. If you or your pet begins showing any unusual symptoms your medial examiner will likely want to test the tick. After the removal has taken place, thoroughly wash the area with rubbing alcohol, soap and water.

Preventing Tick Bites

• Wear the right clothing. Try not to leave any bare skin where ticks could easily attach. Wear long sleeves and pants. It’s also easier to spot ticks in light colored clothing.
• Use natural  insect repellent. 
• Stay on the trails. When possible, stay on walking trails and away from overgrown areas where ticks may hide.
• Check for ticks throughout the day.
• Eliminate their habitats. Make your property less friendly to ticks by mowing the grass and trimming bushes. Spray a chemical-free  insecticide such as PCO Choice to kill existing bugs which will also act as a repellent.
• Check your pets.  Regularly checking for ticks and using a extra-strength tick repellent such as TickShield will help prevent pets from bringing ticks into your home.

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6 Tips To Eliminate Bugs Naturally

The best way to avoid encounters with pesky bugs is to take preventative measures. Use these easy tips to reduce unwanted pests.

1.) Maintain Your Yard Prevents: Ticks, Mosquitoes, Chiggers, Flies, Ants

Mowing regularly and removing debris from your yard is one of the first steps you should take in bug-proofing your home. Insects find overgrown areas to be a safe haven and will  make homes there. Treating your lawn with natural pesticides and mulches will also safely treat and prevent infestations.

2.) Wipe Floors & Counters
Prevents: Ants, Flies, Cockroaches

Insects need food and water just like we do, so leftover crumbs or spills can quickly turn into a tasty buffet for them.  Storing food in airtight containers and keeping your floors and counters clean and is key. Vacuuming regularly is also important. For active bug problems, sprinkle home-safe granules or use an all-purpose bug spray to treat areas known to be affected. (Fun fact, Cedar Oil is safe to use in all food prep areas!)

3.) Remove Standing Water
Prevents: Mosquitoes, Flies

Mosquitoes rely on water for both feeding and breeding.  Remove standing water from trash cans, pots, furniture, buckets, etc.  If you have birdbaths, be sure to change the water every 2-3 days. Regularly removing debris and leaves from gutters and drains is also important.

4.) Seal Your Doors & Windows
Prevents: All bugs

It’s good practice to annually check your doors and windows for cracks or openings. Bugs (and other critters) look for places like this to gain access to your home. A simple weatherstrip or door sealing kit can often do the trick if you find openings. Also, spraying your doors and window seals with an all-purpose repellent will deter them from entering your home.

5.) Clean Trash Cans
Prevents: Mosquitoes, Flies

For a number of reasons including food and shelter, bugs love trash cans. Regularly wiping down your trash cans and spraying an all-natural repellent will significantly cut down  or eliminate this problem.

6.) Treat Your Pets
Prevents: Fleas, Ticks, Mosquitoes

One of the quickest ways fleas and ticks enter your home is through your pets. Spraying your pets with natural flea & tick spray before going outside is a safe way to keep fleas and ticks away. Avoid heavily wooded areas during peak tick season and always do a tick inspection after outdoor activities.

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