Ticks are a tiny type of parasite that rarely exceeds 1/8 of an inch long. They have eight legs, are wingless, and are classified as arachnids. Hungry ticks can detect prospective hosts and are equipped with hypostomes for attaching to the skin and use sharp chelicerae that can pierce the skin and gain access to a blood meal.
The most common types of ticks in the Houston region are deer ticks and lone star ticks. Deer ticks have a brown or orange body with legs that appear in darker shades. Lone star ticks are initially a red or brownish color; however, after feeding, they appear in a shade of grey.
Ticks reproduce by laying eggs within areas of moist soil and generally are unable to reproduce when indoors. When outdoors, ticks are commonly positioned in thick grass, weeds, or other vegetation.
As with the majority of parasitic creatures, ticks carry harmful pathogens that include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, and others. While most of their hosts exhibit mild symptoms, some people and animals respond with signs of a tick bite allergy and might need medical or veterinary assistance.
What are the signs your dog has a tick? You might notice the presence of ticks in pet bedding, or the animal may develop symptoms of a fever. Look for any scabs that appear on the skin, shaking or scratching of the head, or the presence of a small bump below the fur.
Using Essential Oils For Ticks
Some natural tick sprays and other organic options have demonstrated some limited success in repelling many types of ticks that are found in this region. Oregano essential oil contains an ingredient known as cedrol, which has proven to be effective at killing ticks. The combination of thyme and citronella oil has also been shown to be a natural option that is useful against these pests.
While these and several other essential oils for ticks are helpful, they are generally not a practical solution to a significant infestation.
How To Best Prevent Ticks
We have a few tips to help you keep ticks out of your home:
- Your pet should receive preventative treatment for ticks from a veterinarian.
- Pets should be regularly bathed and brushed to limit ticks, and remember to keep an eye out for the aforementioned signs your dog has a tick.
- Keep grass, weeds, and other vegetation near the property trimmed.
- Remove birdfeeders and avoid feeding pets in outdoor areas to prevent wild animals that carry ticks.
Responding To Harmful Pest Intrusions
Many property owners underestimate the dangers that ticks and other parasites can create until they recognize a significant infestation or experience a harmful reaction associated with a tick bite allergy. Other individuals will try natural tick sprays or options sold in local home improvement stores such as traps. Unfortunately, the majority of these store-bought products are insufficient for eradicating significant tick infestations and may potentially contain harsh chemicals that pose health risks.
The experts with All-Safe Pest & Termite will visit the property and conduct a detailed interior and exterior inspection to understand the type of pest(s) involved and the nature of the infestation. Those who suspect a potential pest intrusion are encouraged to consult with a local pest extermination professional that is properly trained and equipped to eradicate these critters quickly.
Leading Provider Of Powerful Treatment Options For Pests In Houston
Did you know that the team of specialists with All-Safe Pest & Termite has been delivering positive results for residential and commercial customers in this region for many years now? Part of our long track record of success is attributed to a commitment to offering our clients the best customer service in the industry. Our current customers are among our leading sources of new customer referrals, suggesting that we have been making a positive impression.
We encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an onsite property assessment. Remember to ask your representative about our affordable and innovative year-round protection plans to ensure the property remains free of aggravating pests.