How to Get Rid of Ticks

Ticks are very small arachnids, so they’re related to scorpions and spiders, but probably more closely related to a number of mite species. Ticks are common in the warmer months of the year and can be pests to both pets and humans. The big concern with ticks is the diseases they can transmit, including Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Although ticks are common in the wilderness, it doesn’t mean they can’t infest a home. Ticks have been known to latch onto both animals and humans before infesting a building.

Learn how to get rid of ticks from the experts at Florida Pest Control, and of course, if you think you have a tick infestation in your home or business, contact us today!

How to Remove a Tick

Removing a tick from your body can be difficult. Ticks secrete a cement-like substance that attaches them firmly to their host. Trying to simply grab a tick and pull it away can actually cause its head to detach, which can infect the wound. To safely and effectively remove a tick from yourself or a pet, use tweezers and grasp as close to the tick’s head and the skin as possible. Then, pull upward with a steady and even pressure. Once the tick has been removed, disinfect the area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

Getting Rid of Ticks from Your Home

Once a tick gets indoors, it can live in carpeting very similarly to how it lives in tall grass. All it needs is a blood meal and it’s ready to breed and lay eggs. In addition to carpet fibers, ticks will lay eggs in upholstery or pet bedding. Then, once the larvae hatches, they’ll hide among the fibers waiting to hitch a ride on a host.

Although ticks are adapted to warmer temperatures, they do have a heat threshold. If you find ticks on your pet’s bed, it’s recommended to wash it in hot water to get rid of ticks. Steam cleaning for your carpets and upholstery cleaning are also recommended if you have ticks in your building. This will help kill live ticks and any larvae or eggs they’ve laid. Vacuuming regularly is also a good way to help get rid of ticks.

Professional Tick Removal

The very best way to get rid of ticks is with prevention. This is done best by making sure you, your family, and your pets stay away from tall grass and wear protective clothing just in case. This includes wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and applying an insect repellent with DEET.

Ticks are nasty little pests, so if you have an infestation, it’s best to work with an experienced tick exterminator like Florida Pest Control. We’ve been protecting homes and businesses against ticks in the South Florida area for more than 70 years.