Tips To Avoid Fleas & Ticks This Summer In Western Massachusetts

June 20, 2023

In: Ticks

Fleas and ticks are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of animals and humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fleas and ticks represent a public health risk throughout most of the United States. This federal agency is undertaking continual efforts with leaders at the state and local levels to educate the public regarding the diseases that fleas and ticks may spread.

Are you wondering how to get rid of fleas and ticks that have infested your home? Once fleas or ticks enter homes, they often lay many eggs, which results in increasingly larger infestations that pose significant challenges for local homeowners. The best course of action is to contact the pros promptly. An established Western Massachusetts pest control company employs a trained staff specializing in flea and tick extermination services. Pest control professionals understand how to repel ticks and fleas and maintain the equipment needed to get the job done right.

Why Some Yards Attract Ticks

Ticks live in a variety of natural settings, which might include your yard. Ticks are creatures that are most active during the warmest months of summer. Ticks in Western Massachusetts generally hide in areas such as high grass, weeds, or overgrown vegetation awaiting a passing host, which commonly includes pets, humans, or forms of wildlife. In many cases, ticks are introduced into yards by their hosts, such as mice, squirrels, or deer. Therefore, yards that provide food sources for types of wildlife, such as bird feeders or trash, are more likely to have ticks.

How To Reduce Ticks Around Your Yard

Ticks prefer areas with trees, high grass, or shrubs that allow them to hide;  property owners should keep their grass cut short, remove weeds, and trim back vegetation.  Limit excess moisture by repairing leaky spigots or hoses and keeping gutters clean. If wildlife is routinely traveling through your yard, install fencing or some other type of barrier.

Rodents are common hosts; therefore, all trash bags containing food scraps should remain in durable garbage receptacles with tightly-fitting lids. Promptly remove fallen fruits and clean up thoroughly after picnics or barbeques in yards or patio areas. Fill in any ground holes that might house burrowing rodents.

Five Tips To Avoid Tick Bites This Summer

Are you a property owner in Western Massachusetts looking for answers regarding how to protect yourself from ticks and flea bites? Consider the following five protective measures:

1. Those with dogs or cats must ensure their pet remains on a year-round flea and tick prevention plan as prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.
2. When hiking in wooded areas, remain on the main trail if possible and avoid venturing through areas of higher grass or vegetation.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants when engaging in outdoor activity, which limits direct access to your skin.
4. Apply topical products that contain EPA-approved repellents, such as the oil of Lemon eucalyptus, IR3535, or picaridin.
5. Apply repellent products with 0.5% permethrin to clothing, footwear, and other belongings.

These five tips represent viable options for limiting the likelihood of enduring flea and tick bites; however, those experiencing an existing infestation should immediately consult a licensed pest control professional.

Why Professional Flea & Tick Treatment In Western Massachusetts Works

What to do about fleas and ticks that have entered your home and created an infestation? Consult with a home pest control professional in Western Massachusetts regarding the available treatment options.

American Pest Solutions has decades of experience providing high-quality flea and tick treatment for homeowners in Western Massachusetts facing problems involving these bothersome and often harmful pests. We also assist customers in this region with ants, bed bugs, mosquitoes, and many other unwanted pests.

Contact our office today for further details.