Ticks
American Dog Tick
Identification
Ticks are small and flattened, consisting of two body regions fused together as one in appearance. In the adult stage, they have eight legs and take blood meals. They do not have antennae. Ticks are usually 3mm or more in length and are ectoparasites on mammals, birds, and some on reptiles and amphibians.
Detection
Check pets frequently for the presence of Ticks. Ticks may also bite and feed on human blood and they usually attach themselves to the body near constricted areas (belt lines) or climb to the head. At certain times of the year they may gather in large numbers on exterior walls or enter the home through cracks around windows and doors.
Impact
In addition to creating annoyance and discomfort, Ticks are efficient carriers of many diseases of humans and pets. They are second only to mosquitoes in the number of diseases they inflict to man, and are the number one cause for disease in domestic animals. Disease associated with Ticks include: Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, typhus, rickettsial pox, relapsing fever, and others.
Prevention
Avoiding Tick-infested areas is the best approach, but precautions can be taken by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats in these areas. Light-colored clothing should be worn to make Ticks easier to see, and pants should be tucked into socks or boots to prevent them from getting under the pants leg. Tick repellants can be applied to the outside of clothing, particularly the pants leg.
Keeping weeds mowed will also help prevent a problem, and reducing brush and small trees in rural areas is beneficial.
A professional perimeter treatment will greatly reduce Tick numbers, especially when they congregate around the home.
Solution
A professional treatment is the best way to reduce ticks in a given area. Cook’s Pest Control offers professional treatment for the reduction of ticks. Our technicians are thoroughly trained to address your tick problems.
Don’t waste time and money on over-the-counter remedies or unprofessional service. Call Cook’s, the South’s reliable pest control service. We provide free pest identification and free evaluations. Ask about our 110% Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!
