How to Prevent Fleas and Ticks in Vermont

Vermont summers are beautiful, making more people want to spend time outdoors. Unfortunately, ticks and fleas are common in the summertime. Not only are these pests a nuisance, they can be very dangerous as well. These two insects are both parasitic, meaning they feed on the blood of their hosts to survive. Ticks in particular pose an immense risk in that they can pass blood-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, to their hosts. Cats and dogs are most commonly affected by fleas and ticks, and can spread them throughout your home once indoors. Rats and mice are also known to bring these pests indoors. The team at Vermont Pest Control is here with tips on how to prevent fleas and ticks in your property this summer and all year long.

Dangers of Fleas and Ticks

Fleas often attach to cats or dogs outside as they nestle in fur and spread to items inside the home. Rats and mice also bring them indoors sometimes. These tiny, reddish brown insects can cause itchy bites and, in serious cases, allergic reactions. Fleas can spread easily, making them a pain to deal with once they get inside.

Just like fleas, ticks latch onto the fur of animals as well as clothing and skin. An infestation is often caused when they’ve infested a rodent, raccoon, or another animal near the home. Certain ticks, such as the brown dog tick, does well living indoors, and many species of ticks transmit a number of viruses or infections. The most common tick-borne illness is Lyme disease. If left untreated, this disease can cause damage to the heart and nervous system.

5 Ways to Prevent Fleas & Ticks

No one wants to deal with fleas and ticks in the summer. In addition to getting any pets treated for fleas regularly, it’s important to make sure you implement preventative measures outside the home to keep fleas and ticks away. There are several things you can do to prevent fleas and ticks:

1. Keep a tidy landscape by avoiding piles of debris, keeping garbage stored carefully, and trimming back trees and foliage.
2. Don’t leave pet food outside.
3. Fleas cannot survive in direct sunlight, so keeping your home and yard sunny may be a natural deterrent.
4. Avoid walking in areas with high brush.
5. Seal holes and any areas of entry into the home to detract rodents from getting inside.

Need Flea or Tick Control?

Getting fleas or ticks can be very overwhelming. When you have them, it’s important to get professional help to remove them. The team at Vermont Pest Control is here to help keep you and your family safe from these parasitic insects year-round in Vermont. Contact our team today to learn more!