Fleas and ticks are often said in the same breath despite being very different. For example, fleas latch onto mammals like cats and dogs and get a free ride into your home. Whereas ticks often live outdoors in wooded areas and vegetation. That said, the problems they cause are very similar and the host of health issues they cause are ones that you will want to avoid at all costs.
Identifying Fleas and Ticks
Fleas are commonly known as freeloaders because they enter new environments (i.e. your home) by latching onto mammals, shoes, pants, and blankets. Once inside the home, fleas will usually hide in furniture, beds, and carpeting, as well as hardwood floors, where they may lay their eggs. They bite and feed on the blood of mammals, so they may irritate allergies.
Ticks are identified in two categories: soft ticks and hard ticks. While soft ticks feed on birds, hard ticks feed on humans and pets. Regardless of the tick species, you will want to decrease the population on your property immediately. They typically live outside, and if spotted on a human or dog, homeowners likely have an infestation in their yard. These persnickety pests will latch onto you, your children, and your pets. As they feed on blood, they transmit harmful diseases including Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and a host of other diseases.
Keeping Fleas And Ticks Off Of Your Tampa Property
Due to the serious health issues posed by fleas and ticks, homeowners should strive to do everything in their power to keep fleas and ticks off of their property.
- Lowering flea and tick populations around the yard by deterring wildlife is key because this is how pests tend to jump around. Keeping your lawn properly landscaped is very important. This can entail mowing the lawn, replacing weather stripping around your home’s foundation and windows, and removing sites of moisture.
- While out and about, consider wearing a repellent that contains an EPA-registered ingredient such as DEET, eucalyptus oil, or picaridin. Try wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover as much of the skin’s surface areas as possible, and inspect your clothing and skin after spending a lot of time outdoors.
- For matters having to do with family pets, try speaking with a veterinarian to discuss topical treatment or collar options.
- Ongoing professional assistance is the safest way to protect your home, property, and pets.
What To Do If You Find Fleas Or Ticks On Your Tampa Property
Fleas and ticks are both pests you will want to keep off of your property and out of your home. If you have a tick bite and the tick is still attached, you must remove it from the skin fully and clean the bite area with soap and water thoroughly. Also, monitor the area for any residual redness or the trademark bullseye rash. When in doubt, consult a medical professional.
Individuals should take extra precautions by saving the tick in a sealed bag to be tested for any potentially harmful bacteria. Since there are many species of ticks that can be found in the Tampa area, you may want to keep the tick to identify it properly as well and determine any further action.
Flea bites often cause itchy, swollen red bumps. If you suspect that you’ve been bitten by a flea, try not to scratch the affected area. First, clean the area with soap and water then use an ice pack to minimize swelling. Then try applying an over-the-counter topical ointment and consider taking an antihistamine. But most importantly, you should seek medical assistance, especially if there is a suspected allergic reaction such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
Fleas and ticks are a truly serious matter because of the intense health issues that they cause. The best flea and tick control service comes with ongoing professional assistance from EcoTech Pest Control Services. Protect your family and home today. Reach out to us to speak with one of our pest control experts.