Flea & Tick Season is Here – Protect Your Family & Pets

Spring is officially here, and for many of us, it’s time for that annual tradition we all know and love – spring cleaning! Whether it’s clearing out the garage, washing the windows, or sprucing up the garden, it feels good to start fresh. But before you get too carried away with your to-do list, there’s something important you should add to your checklist: flea and tick prevention. As the weather warms up and outdoor activities ramp up, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about protecting your family and pets from these pesky little invaders.

Why Flea and Tick Prevention is Important

You may not always see fleas and ticks, but trust me, they’re there. Fleas are tiny but multiply quickly, making them a nightmare to eliminate once they’ve infested your home. On the other hand, ticks are not only a nuisance but also carry serious diseases like Lyme disease. Both can affect your pets and family members, so prevention is key. By staying on top of flea and tick control, you’re keeping your home safe and comfortable for everyone.

Signs of a Flea and Tick Problem

At Home:

• Unexplained bites or red, itchy bumps on your skin.
• Fleas leave behind little specks of dirt that look like pepper. Check your carpets, bedding, and furniture for any signs of these black specks.
• If your pets are scratching or biting at themselves a lot.

On Your Pets:

• Pets, especially dogs and cats, can become obsessed with scratching or licking at their fur when fleas or ticks are present.
• Bald spots or open sores on your pet’s skin due to excessive scratching.
• Ticks can cling to your pet’s skin, often near the head, ears, and underbelly. They’re easier to spot if you regularly check your pet, especially after outdoor activities.

How to Control Fleas & Ticks at Home

When controlling fleas and ticks at home, a little prevention goes a long way. Here are some simple ways to keep your home safe from these pests:

• Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives, such as collars, topical treatments, or oral medications.
• Regularly vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture to remove flea eggs, larvae, and ticks. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside.
• Wash pet bedding and your own, or any blankets your pet uses.
• Use flea and tick sprays for your home.
• Trim your lawn and shrubs. Ticks love to hide in tall grass, so keeping your yard well-maintained helps limit their hiding places.
• For more serious infestations, or if you just want peace of mind, call Vogelsang Pest Management. We can provide targeted treatments that are both effective and safe for your family and pets.

Flea and tick season can be a hassle, but with the proper steps and professional pest control, you can keep your pets and family safe. As a family-owned business, we’ve been helping families in the O’Fallon area for over 30 years. Our experienced technicians are knowledgeable in pest control, especially fleas and ticks. Our clients consistently tell us how much they love the peace of mind they get from knowing their homes and pets are safe, and we can’t wait to offer you the same protection. If you haven’t already scheduled an appointment, now’s the perfect time to avoid the problem. Contact us today so you can enjoy your spring and summer worry-free!