Ticks: The Tiny But Dangerous Bug

Learn About These Small & Dangerous Pests

Ticks are external parasites that pose a significant threat to both humans and pets due to their ability to transmit harmful diseases. They latch onto mammals to feed on their blood, and their presence can be a serious health concern. In the United States, the primary tick species that home and pet owners need to watch out for are deer ticks and dog ticks.

Description

Also known as black-legged ticks, deer ticks are named after their primary hosts: white-tailed deer. These ticks are prevalent across the eastern half of the U.S., with a higher concentration in the Northeast, Central U.S., and along the Atlantic coast. They are small, with orange-brown bodies about 1/8 of an inch long, and have eight black legs, giving them their distinctive appearance. After feeding, their abdomens become engorged and darken in color.

Behavior and Habitat

Deer ticks are not capable of flight and rely on their strong legs to latch onto larger animals as they pass by. They commonly hide in tall grass, along fence lines, or on foot trails where animal traffic is frequent.

Are Deer Ticks Dangerous?

Yes, deer ticks are highly dangerous due to their role in transmitting several serious diseases. They are well-known for spreading Lyme disease to both pets and humans. Additionally, deer ticks can carry anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Powassan virus, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which can have severe health consequences.

Why Do I Have a Deer Tick Problem?

Deer ticks are usually brought into yards by deer and other wildlife. If you have tall grass, dense vegetation, or a heavy presence of wildlife around your home, the likelihood of deer ticks in your yard increases. Pets can also carry these ticks into your home.

Getting Rid of Deer Ticks

Effective prevention includes maintaining a well-trimmed yard, removing weeds, and eliminating clutter that could serve as tick harborage sites. If ticks have already infested your yard or pets, professional intervention is essential. Pestogone offers expert tick control services to eliminate ticks and reduce potential nesting sites, helping to ensure your family and pets are safe.

Dog Ticks

Description: American dog ticks are prevalent throughout North America and, as their name suggests, primarily feed on dogs. They can also attach to cats, humans, and other mammals. Dog ticks are generally about 1/4 inch long but can grow to over 1/2 inch when engorged. They have eight legs and feature a brown body with white or gray markings.

Are Dog Ticks Dangerous?

While dog ticks rarely target humans, they can transmit diseases such as tularemia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Bites from dog ticks can lead to itching, fever, rash, and in severe cases, paralysis.

Why Do I Have a Dog Tick Problem?

Dog ticks thrive in tall grass and easily latch onto passing animals, including pets. If you live near wooded areas or have outdoor pets, ticks can enter your yard on wildlife like rabbits, mice, and squirrels.

Getting Rid of Dog Ticks

If dog ticks have become a problem, professional help is often required for effective control. Pestogone provides specialized tick treatment solutions to eliminate infestations and prevent them from recurring, ensuring your pets and family stay tick-free.

Protect Your Property and Pets from Ticks

Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they pose serious health risks and can significantly impact the well-being of your family and pets. At Pestogone, our experienced technicians use advanced tools and methods to address tick infestations comprehensively.

Contact Us

For reliable tick control solutions and to safeguard your property from these dangerous pests, reach out to your local Pestogone team today. We offer tailored treatments to keep ticks at bay now and into the future. Don’t let ticks disrupt your life—get in touch with Pestogone for effective pest control and peace of mind.