Fleas and ticks are pests that feed solely on the blood of people and animals. They can become a problem on any property after being introduced by wild animals. Fleas are insects that have flat, hard bodies, making them difficult to squish, and they are dark brown in color. Fleas are wingless, but have large, powerful legs that allow them to move quickly and jump onto their hosts. Ticks are arachnids; they have oval-shaped bodies, eight legs, and are also wingless. Ticks lie in wait until a new host brushes by that they can attach themselves to.

Ticks live outside in areas of dense vegetation, tall grass, and wooded areas. Most ticks are not able to breed indoors and, therefore, do not become a huge issue inside of homes. Fleas, on the other hand, can breed indoors and, if introduced inside, can become a major problem and be very difficult to eliminate. Preventing contact with fleas and ticks is important for many reasons. Fleas transmit parasitic tapeworms; ticks carry and transmit a variety of diseases including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tularemia. Both people and animals that have an allergy to flea's saliva can develop itchy, uncomfortable dermatitis that has the potential to become infected.

Our experts have some tips for preventing fleas and ticks from invading your Midlands SC property. Establish a barrier between your lawn and wooded areas and keep your grass cut short. Make your property less attractive to wildlife by removing bird feeders and keeping locking lids on trash cans and compost bins. After spending time outside, inspect yourself and your pets for ticks and fleas. Also, make sure to place your pets on year-round flea and tick programs under the guidance of their veterinarian, regularly bathe and groom your pets, and consider investing in a flea and tick collar. Finally, don't bring used furniture or rugs into your home, as they could potentially be infested with fleas or flea eggs.