The sun is shining! The days are getting longer. Its time to get outside and enjoy the weather! It’s time for hiking, biking, swimming and barbecues. Don’t forget your sunscreen, hats and water. No one wants to get sunburned, or dehydrated. There’s just one thing missing in that safety list, tick repellant.
Deer ticks are kind of a big deal during the warmer months, starting in May typically. These small arachnids will hide out in tall grassy areas, bushes and shrubs waiting for their next host. They attach to their host by clinging on to clothing or fur. They then attempt to bite the host. Deer ticks do not just attach to deer, they also attach to humans, dogs, cats and other wildlife. These ticks are not to be taken lightly. They can be a serious threat to humans and pets. Deer ticks are commonly known for transmitting Lyme disease. Not all ticks are infected with Lyme disease and so not every tick will pass the disease on to their new host.
Tick bites usually leave a raised red mark on your skin. Once the tick is removed from the skin the bite mark should be well cleaned and taken care of. Tick bites that have transmitted Lyme disease may have a red ring appear around them within a few days. Other symptoms include fever, headache and fatigue. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Lyme disease it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The sooner Lyme disease is diagnosed and treated than the better the results will be.
To help prevent tick bites this summer try the following tips:
- Treat your pets with a tick repellant under the direct care of a veterinarian.
- Wear long sleeve shirts and pants when outside. This will be a barrier between you and the ticks.
- Wear bug spray outside. Bug spray that includes DEET is the best defense in repelling pests. Consult a doctor about recommendations for bug repellant for children.
- When hiking stick to the path and avoid tall grassy areas.
- Check everyone, including pets before going back into your home after being outside.
Ticks are not a pest you want to dismiss. If you see them on your property, American Pest Solutions can help. With our effective tick control services, you can take back your yard. Contact us today!