How Common Ticks Get Around
Ticks get around somewhat slowly. Even though they have eight legs like a spider, they don't share many other abilities. Ticks depend on crawling or climbing over terrain to travel short distances. For longer distances, they lie in wait for a passing warm-blooded host. The most common ticks found in the southern United States include:
- Blacklegged/deer tick
- Lone star tick
- American dog tick
- Brown dog tick
- Asian longhorned tick
All ticks will latch onto humans if the opportunity presents itself. However, deer ticks and lone star ticks are most aggressive to humans. American dog ticks and brown dog ticks are attracted to dogs. Check your furry friends after long hours spent playing outdoors to ensure they aren't hosting unwelcome pests. The Asian longhorned tick is one of the newest species in the United States since 2017 and is attracted to dogs, cats, and livestock.
The Dangerous Diseases Ticks Are Known To Spread
Ticks pose a danger to humans and animals. They spread numerous diseases depending on their previous hosts and transmit them to the next. These diseases range from debilitating to life-threatening and are serious concerns. Common tick diseases include tularemia, Heartland virus, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and more.
Tick removal itself is tricky. Ticks have long mouthparts that can become lodged in the skin and cause a secondary infection. For tick removal, use tweezers and pull gently and steadily in an upward motion. Clean the wound with soap and water and dispose of the tick by wrapping it in toilet paper and flushing it. If you believe yourself inadequate to remove a tick or have unsuccessfully attempted removal, seek medical attention immediately.
Five No-Sweat Tips To Prevent Tick Bites While Outdoors
Avoiding ticks is easy with the proper protection. Along with the help of tick-deterring bug spray, these tips keep you and your best friends tick-free:
- Wear long sleeves and reduce the amount of skin that is exposed.
- Avoid thick woodland, tall grasses, and unkempt brush.
- Check your clothing, skin, and pets for ticks before returning to your property. Be sure to remove any ticks you find right away.
- Stick to the middle of the trails when walking in the woods and avoid brushing against low branches.
- Equip your pets (if you have any) with flea and tick collars.
For further tick protection, contact a certified pest control company near you for effective measures that prevent ticks from crossing onto your property.
The Best Tick Control For Around Your Home And Yard
A professional tick control program uniquely designed for your home and property is the most effective way to take a stand against ticks. BUGWORKS Termite & Pest Control has protected McAllen from ticks and other dangerous pests for over 18 years. We offer the latest innovations that work with your home to keep ticks away for good. Our customers matter to us; let us prove it to you. Contact us for more information and request a free over-the-phone estimate for your home's protection.