Fleas and ticks can be dangerous pests in the summertime here in Puerto Rico. They are often brought into the home on pets, or after you’ve gone for a hike or walk in an area with high brush. These two insects are both parasitic, meaning they feed on the blood of their hosts to survive . While both pose a threat, ticks are considered particularly dangerous. Their bites can pass blood-borne diseases, most famously Lyme Disease, to their hosts. Although these pests are common year round, we see a spike in activity in the warmer months as people spend more time outdoors. The team at Oliver Exterminating is here to help you learn about preventing tick & flea bites this summer.

All About Flea & Tick Bites

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.

Similarly to 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.

How to Prevent Fleas and Ticks in Puerto Rico

Because these pests can be dangerous, it’s important to learn how to prevent them. 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. Because fleas and ticks are commonly found on wild animals, there are several ways you can lessen the risk of getting them in your yard:

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

Flea and Tick Control

Flea and tick infestations are notoriously difficult to manage, not to mention the threats they pose to your pets and family. For more information on keeping these parasitic insects away from your home in Puerto Rico or to control an infestation, give the experts at Oliver a call today!

Preventing Tick & Flea Bites This Summer in Puerto Rico

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