Tiny, yet troublesome. Ticks are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of warm-blooded creatures.
If you’re picturing them as a problem only for pet owners, think again. Although most commonly a problem for homeowners with domestic animals such as dogs and cats, a tick infestation may also form in homes without pets. Among the most common types of ticks in the Salem area are blacklegged ticks, also called deer ticks, and Rocky Mountain wood ticks.
Once a tick infestation begins, eliminating it often becomes very challenging.
The good news? You don’t have to deal with them alone. Whether you’re a property owner with pets or a hiker hitting Salem’s trails, knowing how to prevent ticks is the key to keeping these pests at bay.
Contacting a local pest control professional is the smart move. A Salem pest control company employs a team of trained specialists who understand how to get rid of ticks in homes and how to keep ticks away from the property.
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Why Tick Prevention Is Non-Negotiable
It’s not an exaggeration to say that ticks can ruin the best-laid plans of any outdoor enthusiast or homeowner.
These pests aren’t just annoying—they’re carriers of some pretty serious diseases, like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The problem is, you often won’t even know a tick has bitten you until it’s firmly latched on. Ticks are sneaky like that.
For Salem residents, tick prevention isn’t just about avoiding an itchy nuisance. It’s about protecting your family, pets, and yourself from potential health risks.
The sooner you take action, the better. Imagine your yard as a sanctuary where you can kick back without the lingering thought of what might be lurking in the grass. That’s where proactive tick prevention comes in—and that’s exactly what Kanga Pest Control specializes in.
How Common Ticks Get Around
Ticks may be small, but their hunting strategies are wildly effective. They can detect body heat, natural odors, vibrations, and even the carbon dioxide you exhale.
While they can’t fly or jump—thankfully—they do have a sneaky trick. Ticks lie in wait on tall grasses or shrubs, using their outstretched legs to hitch a ride on any warm-blooded creature passing by.
Salem’s tick season typically ramps up in late spring and hangs around through summer and early fall. During this time, they’re most active, lurking in places like hiking trails, overgrown yards, and the edges of wooded areas. This makes protecting yourself and your property all the more urgent, especially from April through October.
Useful Tips To Protect Yourself From Ticks While Out And About
Every great prevention plan starts with awareness. If you’re someone who loves spending time outdoors—or if your pets do—you’ll want to keep an eye out for these hitchhikers. Start with making the small, but impactful, changes.
When outdoors, stick to maintained trails and avoid wandering into tall grasses or overgrown vegetation where ticks thrive. If you’re planning a backyard barbecue, keep your yard in check. Mow the lawn regularly, trim back overgrowth, and stay on top of weeding to eliminate hiding spots for ticks.
For added protection, long-sleeve shirts and full-length pants are your best friends. And don’t forget about your furry companions—dogs and cats are practically magnets for ticks. Talk to your vet about the best flea-and-tick prevention options for your pets.
If you’re looking for a proven deterrent, the EPA recommends repellents containing ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. These products can add an extra layer of protection for you and your family. And if you spot one of these critters on your skin despite your best efforts, don’t panic—there’s a quick and effective way to deal with it.
How To Remove A Tick And Warning Signs To Watch For
Finding a tick can feel unsettling, but the removal process is fairly straightforward.
Use tweezers to grab the tick close to your skin’s surface. Pull upward with steady pressure—don’t twist or jerk, as this can leave parts of the tick embedded in your skin. Once removed, clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol to avoid infection.
Dispose of the tick properly, as you don’t want it finding its way back onto someone else. You can flush it down the toilet, wrap it in tape, or drop it into alcohol.
Afterward, watch for signs of illness, such as fever, muscle aches, or unusual rashes. If these show up, call your doctor immediately. It’s worth noting that cases of Lyme disease are relatively rare in Oregon, but staying vigilant is always a good idea.
Professional Tick Control for Your Peace of Mind
While DIY measures are great for prevention, tick infestations can be tricky to tackle without professional help. That’s where Kanga Pest Control comes into play.
Our specialized pest control services are designed for Salem-area homes and businesses. Whether you’ve spotted a few ticks or suspect a full-blown infestation, our trained specialists know exactly how to eradicate these pests and ensure they don’t come back.
At Kanga, we don’t just eliminate ticks—we also focus on creating a lasting protective barrier around your property.
With advanced techniques and top-rated products recommended by organizations like the Oregon Pest Control Association and National Pest Management Association, we offer year-round protection from pests. Plus, we’re proud of the customer-first approach that has made us a trusted name in Salem.
Time to Take Action Against Ticks
Imagine walking through your yard or heading out for a hike without worrying about ticks hiding in the shadows. With Kanga Pest Control, that can be your reality.
Staying proactive with tick prevention doesn’t just protect your family—it also lets you enjoy the beauty of Salem without hesitation.
If ticks are already a problem, don’t wait for the issue to escalate. Ticks, after all, are quite literally a ticking time bomb.
Contact Kanga Pest Control today, and we’ll help you take charge. Because with the right plan in place, those ticks don’t stand a chance.
