The warm summer months beckon people (and pets) outdoors to enjoy the warm temperatures and extended daylight hours. While some people like to hike, others prefer to play at a park, and some want to relax in their backyard. Whatever outdoor activity you enjoy, you may unknowingly bring uninvited guests (like ticks and fleas) into your home after spending time outside. Here’s how you can prevent these pests from taking up residence in your home:
Protect your family and pets before they go outdoors. Prevention is the best medicine, especially when it comes to fleas and ticks. Purchase bug spray specifically designed to repel ticks and apply it to all family members before heading outside. Sprays, tablets, and collars can also be used to prevent fleas from attaching themselves to dogs and outdoor cats.
Check for fleas and ticks after spending time outside. Even if you’ve taken preventive measures, you should check yourself and your family members (including the furry ones) after spending time outdoors. Ticks hide in warm spots on the body, like in the hair, behind the ears, and on the stomach. Fleas don’t typically stay on humans for long (they bite and hop off), but on pets, they are most likely found by the ears, along the back, on the stomach, or by the base of the tail.
Keep clutter under control. Sometimes, even if you are vigilant, fleas and ticks can make their way into your home. These pests like to hide in cluttered areas, so the neater you can keep your home, the better.
Vacuum and clean regularly. If fleas and ticks live in your home, the vacuum can capture them (and any eggs they’ve laid). Be sure to vacuum both the floor and upholstered furniture. Cleaning your sheets and pet’s bed regularly can also kill fleas and ticks.
Treat your home and yard with pesticides. Pesticides are one of the best ways to ensure fleas and ticks stay out of your house. At Home Pro Pest Control, we use reduced-risk pesticides that are just as effective but keep everyone in the home safe. Proactive pest treatments can keep your home bug-free all year long.
Don’t let fleas and ticks get you down this summer. Give Home Pro Pest Control a call, and our pest experts can create a custom plan to keep them out of your home. Call (757) 499-1078 or contact us online.