How to Keep Your Pets and Children Safe from Pests This Summer

Action Termite | Dec 19, 2023

As summer arrives, the joy of spending more time outdoors with family and pets is often shadowed by the presence of common pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. These pests can pose significant health risks, not just irritating bites. Here’s how you can protect your loved ones and when you should consider professional pest control services.

Understanding the Risks

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they are vectors for diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable to mosquito bites due to their sensitive skin.

Ticks

Ticks are notorious for spreading Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. They are typically found in grassy or wooded areas and can latch on to both pets and humans, often undetected.

Fleas

Fleas thrive in warm weather and can quickly infest your home. They can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and are carriers of tapeworms.

Preventive Measures

Regular Checks

1.

Inspect Pets

: After walks or playtime outside, routinely check your pets for ticks. Run your fingers through their fur, feeling for bumps or raised areas.

2.

Children's Clothing

: Dress children in light-colored clothing, making it easier to spot ticks. Consider tucking pants into socks if they're going into wooded areas.

Yard Maintenance

1.

Grass Height

: Keep your grass mowed short and clear any brush or debris where pests can hide.

2.

Tick-Repelling Plants

: Consider planting lavender, mint, or other natural pest-repelling plants.

Barrier Protection

1.

Use Screens

: Ensure windows and doors have screens to keep pests from entering your home.

2.

Repellents

: Use EPA-approved insect repellents on exposed skin and clothing for children and pets. Remember to follow guidelines to prevent overexposure.

Safe Zones

1.

Play Areas

: Set up play spaces on patios or areas without direct grass contact to limit exposure to pests.

2.

Pet Resting Areas

: Keep pet beds and resting areas clean and indoors if possible.

When to Seek Professional Help

Persistent pest problems can require more than DIY solutions. If you find that your preventative measures aren't enough, it might be time to consult with professionals.

Action Termite

offers specialized pest control services tailored to meet the specific needs of your family and pets, ensuring a safe outdoor environment.

Treating Bites and Infestations

Immediate Responses

1.

Mosquito Bites

: Apply calamine lotion or an ice pack to reduce itching and swelling.

2.

Tick Bites

: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure. Clean the bite area thoroughly.

3.

Flea Infestations

: Regularly bathe pets with flea-control shampoos and wash their bedding in hot water.

Long-Term Strategies

1.

Veterinary Care

: Consult vets for monthly preventive treatments for pets.

2.

Professional Inspections

: Regular home inspections from

Action Termite

can help identify and treat potential pest problems before they escalate.

Conclusion

Protecting your children and pets from pests during the summer requires vigilance and regular care. While maintaining preventive steps at home can significantly reduce the risk, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance when the situation demands it. With the expertise of

Action Termite

, you can enjoy a pest-free summer, ensuring peace of mind for you and safety for your loved ones.