Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, and Ben Stiller…
Do you know what these celebs have in common? Beyond being famous or semi-famous, they’ve all talked about struggling with Lyme Disease.
Commonly caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme Disease is a condition transmitted through the bite of infected deer ticks. It’s a tricky disease that starts with a fever, headache, fatigue, and rashes, but if it’s not treated, the complications can be scary, spreading to the nervous system, heart, and joints.
Now, if you’re worried about tick-borne diseases, the good news is you can do something about tick infestation. Here, we’ll talk about the best ways to keep your home tick-free.
1. Understand What Causes Tick Infestations
You know that tick bites can lead to diseases, so you have to learn how they might get into your home.
One way is through wild animals such as raccoons and opossums finding their way inside houses. They’re often attracted to food sources, for example, trash bins and leftover pet food.
These animals can also get inside through holes and gaps in your roof, crawl space, and basement. Beyond keeping these creatures away, consider regularly mowing your lawn and trimming shrubs and bushes, as these are good hiding spots for ticks.
2. Use Wood Chips or Gravel
Another way to prevent diseases transmitted by ticks is to irritate their feet. Think about it. Would you want to walk on something littered with broken glass?
That’s how wood chips or gravel feel like for ticks. Remember to line your lawns and other paths with these materials to keep ticks from crossing into your home.
3. Check Your Pets
If you live in a home surrounded by wooded or grassy areas, it’s always a good idea to wear long-sleeved tops and pants. The less bare skin you have exposed, the lower the chance of a tick biting and infecting you.
Remember your pets, too. If you like hiking with your furbabies, don’t forget to check behind their ears and between their toes once you get home. You may also ask your vet for prevention and treatment tips.
4. Consider Raising Chickens
This tick infestation control method isn’t for everyone. However, if you love the idea, you’ll get fresh eggs regularly and have one of the best tick eaters on your property.
Other tick-eating birds include turkeys and guinea fowls. It may be best to avoid birds that flock to bird feeders, as these might carry some ticks.
5. Get Professional Help for Tick Infestation
Tick infestations can still happen no matter how vigilant you are with prevention and control methods.
If you see signs of a tick infestation, don’t wait. Call a tick control service company right away. When they check your home, they’ll do a thorough inspection and explain the best treatment options for your case.
With monthly or quarterly pest control, you can drastically reduce the chances of a tick infestation in your home.
Tick-Tock! Do Something
When it’s your health at stake, you can’t afford to wait. If you suspect ticks in your home, call for tick control services and follow the tips listed here.
For more information on tick infestation and tick-borne diseases, many online resources can help. You may also browse our site for more tips and advice on pest control and prevention.
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