Protect Your Family & Pets from Fleas and Ticks This Summer

A great way to reduce fleas and ticks on your property is by keeping your grass mowed and debris-free. These pests hide in tall grass and debris accumulation — such as sticks, leaves, and twigs — because it gives them a dark, moist environment and protects them from predators and the elements. Regularly mowing your lawn and removing debris allows more sunlight to reach the ground, reduces their hiding spots, and makes your property far less appealing to fleas and ticks.

Stay vigilant by checking your kids and pets for fleas and ticks every time they come inside. These unwanted hitchhikers can latch on without being noticed, so a thorough full body check is essential. For children: Look for small, black bodies on clothes or skin — including hair, under the arms, behind the knees, in and around the ears, and around the waist. For pets: Run your fingers through their fur and feel for small bumps. Check between the toes, around the neck and ears, and on the legs. Pro tip: Throw clothes in the dryer on high heat for about thirty minutes to kill any fleas or ticks on them.

Mowing your lawn and checking your pets and children are great proactive steps — but the best way to get optimal protection is by signing up for professional flea and tick control treatments. Pros will come to your property and spray products proven effective against fleas and ticks. They'll also reapply several times throughout the active season to provide consistent, overlapping coverage when you need it most. That way, you can breathe easier knowing your property is free of these pests and your kids and pets are safe.