Are you looking forward to summer? We are! Unfortunately, so are local tick populations. Ticks are a year-round nuisance here in Texas, but they come out in droves in summer. These disgusting parasites are very concerning, because they can transmit deadly diseases, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, to both people and pets. We are here to help! Read on as a local Plano, TX vet offers advice on how to make your property less appealing to ticks.
Lawn Maintenance
Ticks love to lurk in tall grasses, waiting for their next victim to stroll past. Keeping your lawn neatly trimmed is one of the best things you can do to make your yard unappealing to unwanted visitors.
Remove Debris
Be sure to remove dead branches and fallen leaves from your property. These things make inviting habitats for both ticks and fleas.
Trim Overgrowth
Ticks prefer moist, shady areas. They also like to drop down on people and pets from overhanging branches. Keep branches trimmed back, so your yard gets lots of sun. If you have hedges around your house, cut them back so they don’t touch the walls of your home.
Don’t Invite Wild Animals Over
If you have fruit trees or a garden, be sure to pick up any fallen produce. Otherwise, your yard may become a salad bar for wild animals that carry ticks. Ask your landscaper to recommend plants that won’t attract deer. If you have several acres, consider putting up deer fencing.
Barrier
Ticks don’t like being out in the open: they often turn away from roads and sidewalks. Therefore, putting a three-foot path around your property can help repel them. Just avoid using mulch, especially cocoa mulch, as it’s toxic to dogs.
Bird Feeder Placement
Bird feeders can make a lovely addition to any yard, but be careful not to place yours too close to the house. Birds can carry ticks, and dropped seed can attract rodents that also carry them.
Pesticides
There are many products available that can help repel ticks. Try to choose pet-friendly methods, such as diatomaceous earth. If you have to use pesticides, be careful not to allow your pet to walk through recently-treated areas. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.
Is your pet due for an exam or vaccines? Contact us, your Plano, TX animal hospital, today. We are happy to help!
