Flea & Tick Identification Guide

Fleas and ticks may be small, but these parasitic pests cause big problems once they infest your property. We tell you all you need to know about flea and tick control and prevention strategies so you can avoid the negatives these pests bring.

Learn more about dealing with tick and flea infestations by reviewing the answers to some frequently asked flea and tick questions below.

What are fleas and ticks?

Fleas and ticks are parasitic pests known for their ability to bite humans or animals. Because they feed off the blood of their human and animal hosts, flea and tick infestations can be quite dangerous to encounter, not to mention difficult to remove. There are several types of flea and tick species out there, so if you need help identifying the pest culprits on your property. Don't hesitate to contact Gecko Pest Control.

Are fleas and ticks dangerous?

Both flea bites and tick bites have the potential to spread serious illnesses, trigger allergy issues, and cause health problems in mammals, making these pests some of the more dangerous to host on your property. Illnesses fleas spread worldwide include plague, murine typhus, and cat-scratch fever, while ticks transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, among others, through their bites.

It's important to seek medical attention if you notice concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fever, nausea, pain, swelling, or rash after receiving a flea or tick bite.

Why do I have a flea and tick problem?

A flea and tick problem on your property is typically caused by them finding their way to the exterior or interior areas of your property by wildlife dropping them off or humans and animals transporting them. Following prevention steps to deter infestations of fleas and ticks can help keep these pests far away from your property.

Where will I find fleas and ticks?

Outside, fleas and ticks love to hide around long grass, in piles of debris or woodpiles, and near shaded, overgrown areas. They will also hide on any pets that live on your property and wildlife that might be sheltering around exterior areas. Inside, fleas and ticks will hide on pets or humans, carpeting or fabrics, or anywhere else that provides a secluded hiding spot while they look for a host to feed on.

How do I get rid of fleas and ticks?

Dealing with fleas and ticks can be difficult, which is why you should trust Gecko Pest Control for reliable home pest control. Our team can easily remove flea and tick infestations from all areas of your property, shielding you from the health issues and problematic bites that these pests bring.

How can I prevent fleas and ticks in the future?

Prevent fleas and ticks in the future by following these steps to make your property less desirable.

Treat any pets on your property with a veterinarian-approved flea and tick medication to prevent these pests from being transported to your property via your animals.
Keep wildlife off your property with fences or other deterrent tactics to stop them from dropping parasitic pests off in your yard.
Always check yourself for ticks after spending time outdoors and before returning to your house.
Keep interior areas decluttered, wash pet bedding often, and vacuum or dust frequently to remove any fleas or ticks that may have snuck inside.

If you need further assistance with flea and tick removal around your property, reach out to Gecko Pest Control at the first signs of these pests for effective, reliable pest control treatments in Longview.