Once the weather heats up, fleas and ticks make themselves known, and they don’t wait for an invitation. They show up on your dog after a quick sniff in the grass, or on your cat after a quiet stretch by the screen door. These pests don’t just bite; they stick around, multiply fast, and turn your home into a scratching, sneezing, tail-biting nightmare.
If you’ve been brushing off pest control, summer is not the time to play it casual.
It Starts with a Walk and Ends in an Infestation
What You Might Not Hear from Your Vet
Sure, you know about those monthly preventatives, but there’s more to the story. Your yard might be part of the problem – fleas love those damp, shady spots, while ticks hang out in tall grass and along fences. If you’re not maintaining your outdoor space, your pet’s walking through an all-you-can-eat buffet for bugs.
Here’s something people often miss: those flea products you’re using might not work as well as you think, especially if your dog loves swimming or spends lots of time in the sun. For outdoor adventurers, you might need to double up on protection – think combining topical treatments with smart yard maintenance.
Common Myths About Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks are surrounded by myths that give pet owners a false sense of security. Here are a few that need busting:
- “Indoor pets don’t get fleas.” False. Fleas can hitch a ride on your clothes or come in through screens.
- “Ticks only live in the woods.” Wrong again. They’re common in suburban yards and city parks.
- “If you don’t see them, they aren’t there.” Not true. Fleas and ticks often go unnoticed until they’re a full-blown problem.
Don’t let these misconceptions give you a false sense of security.
Pet Vulnerability: Not All Pets Are Equally at Risk
Certain pets are more prone to flea and tick problems:
- Long-haired dogs and cats can conceal fleas and ticks longer.
- Smaller pets can get hit harder by flea-related anemia.
- Senior pets or those with health issues might have worse reactions to bites..
Knowing your pet’s specific risks helps you plan better protection.
The Human Impact You Don’t Always Think About
When fleas come home with your pet, they’re not picky about who they bite. Humans are fair game, too, and some people have nasty reactions to these bites. Ticks are even more concerning – they can carry serious diseases like Lyme that might not show symptoms for weeks. That tired, achy feeling you can’t shake? It might not just be summer fatigue.
While there’s no need to panic, it’s worth taking seriously. Tick-borne illnesses can be especially rough on kids, older folks, or anyone with a weaker immune system.
Summer Doesn’t Have to Mean Bug Season in Your Home
You can still enjoy warm weather without the constant scratching. Pay attention to your routines and watch what your pet’s getting into. Trust me, you don’t want to realize that both you and your dog are scratching in sync.
Make pest control part of your regular summer routine, like applying sunscreen or watering plants. A little effort now saves a lot of hassle later.
Hire a Professional – ABC Termite & Pest Control Company – Omaha & Lincoln
If you’re concerned about pest infestations or want a professional to evaluate your home’s pest prevention strategies, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local Nebraska pest control expert.
Find a reputable pest control company in Omaha or Lincoln that you TRUST. Ask about their termite inspection and pest management services. You may think you are saving money, however, a single misapplication could have significant and adverse or deadly consequences for you or your loved ones. Contact ABC Termite & Pest Control in Omaha & Lincoln, NE to talk with an exterminator today!
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