As the weather warms up and we all spend more time outdoors, tick season begins—bringing with it more than just itchy bites. Ticks are more than a nuisance; they can carry serious diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Ehrlichiosis, which affect both humans and animals. If you enjoy outdoor activities, have kids, or own pets, protecting yourself from ticks should be a top priority.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about tick season, how to prevent bites, and what to do if you or a loved one has been bitten.
When Is Tick Season?
Tick season typically starts in early spring and can last through late fall, depending on where you live. Ticks thrive in warm, humid environments and are most active in temperatures above 45°F (7°C). In many areas, tick activity peaks in late spring and early summer—right when families are enjoying hiking, barbecues, and time in the yard.
Knowing when ticks are active in your region can help you stay one step ahead.
Where Do Ticks Live?
Ticks are most commonly found in:
- Tall grasses and brush
- Wooded areas and forest edges
- Leaf piles and mulch
- Overgrown lawns and gardens
- Around pet bedding and shaded outdoor spaces
Ticks don’t jump or fly—they wait on vegetation and latch onto people or animals as they pass by. That’s why it’s important to take preventive measures when spending time in these environments.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
- Dress Smart
When hiking, gardening, or spending time in wooded areas, wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck your pants into your socks. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks. - Use EPA-Approved Repellents
Apply a tick repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. For clothing and gear, you can use products containing permethrin, which kills ticks on contact. - Perform Tick Checks
After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks. Pay special attention to:
- Scalp and hairline
- Behind ears
- Underarms
- Around the waist and belly button
- Backs of knees
- Between toes
Showering within two hours of being outdoors can also help wash off unattached ticks.
Protecting Your Pets from Ticks
Ticks don’t just target humans—your pets are at risk too. Dogs, in particular, are frequent tick targets because they often roam in grassy or wooded areas.
Here’s how to keep your pets safe:
- Use Veterinarian-Recommended Tick Preventatives
Speak with your vet about tick control options like oral medications, topical treatments, or tick collars. Regular use can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and tick-borne diseases. - Check Your Pets Daily
Run your hands over your pet’s body after they’ve been outside, especially around the ears, under the collar, between the toes, and near the tail. - Keep Outdoor Spaces Pet-Friendly and Tick-Free
Keep grass trimmed, remove leaf litter, and avoid letting pets wander into wooded or overgrown areas.
What to Do If You Find a Tick
If you discover a tick attached to the skin:
- Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers
Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull Upward Steadily
Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, which can cause mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
- Clean the Area
Wash the bite site and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Monitor for Symptoms
Keep an eye out for signs of tick-borne illness such as rash, fever, fatigue, or joint pain. If symptoms appear, contact a healthcare provider right away.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re finding ticks regularly in your yard or home, it’s time to consult a professional pest control service. A licensed technician can:
- Assess your property for tick habitats
- Apply safe, targeted treatments to reduce tick populations
- Offer guidance on long-term prevention
Professional intervention is especially important if you have children or pets who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Tick season doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your family and pets safe. Regular tick checks, smart landscaping, protective clothing, and professional pest control can go a long way in preventing tick bites and the health risks they bring.
If you’re concerned about ticks in your yard or need help developing a prevention plan, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you stay protected—every season of the year. We recommend tick control newtown.
