Ticks

Tick Identification & Prevention

What are ticks?

Ticks are arachnids and related to spiders and mites. They survive by feeding on the blood of people and animals. Ticks have wingless, oval-shaped bodies; adults have eight legs and are reddish-brown, with no distinguishing markings. After having a blood meal, their bodies swell and turn a bluish-gray color.

The only tick that affects people in Hawaii and our pets is the brown dog tick. As their name suggests, the favorite host of this species is the dog, although they will feed on other animals – and sometimes people – if no other host is available.

Are ticks dangerous?

Compared to other species of ticks living throughout the United States, brown dog ticks are not quite as dangerous to us, and people are not their preferred hosts. They are, however, carriers of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which they can transmit to people. These ticks also transmit canine ehrlichiosis and other diseases to dogs. Brown dog ticks are not carriers of Lyme disease.

Why do I have a tick problem?

The brown dog tick’s primary host is the dog. If your dog or a dog traveling across your yard has come into contact with brown dog ticks, they will introduce them onto your property. Brown dog ticks are one of the few species that can complete their life cycle indoors, meaning that if a few adults or eggs make it into your home, it can lead to a large, difficult to control infestation.

Where will I find ticks?

Brown dog ticks live in a variety of places, including our homes, dog kennels, dog parks, campgrounds, and other areas where dogs frequent. When adult brown dog ticks are feeding, they typically attach themselves to their canine host behind the ear or between their toes. This species does not feed for very long before dropping off of their host. Inside our homes, brown dog ticks not feeding on a host hide in the warm, dry areas of our house, and you’ll often see them crawling up walls or along the edges of floors.

How do I get rid of ticks?

If you have discovered ticks in your yard or home, the best way to get rid of them and prevent them from returning is to reach out to Able Pest Management, LLC. Our team will come to your aid and develop a pest control program that is customized to meet the unique needs of your home and family.

Our highly trained and experienced professionals are passionate about eliminating pests through our proven treatment methods. If you are looking for exceptional pest control for your Honolulu home or business, reach out to Able Pest Management today!

How can I prevent ticks in the future?

Keep ticks out of your Honolulu home and away from your family with the help of Able Pest Management and the following tick prevention tips:

Place your dogs on a year-round tick control product under the guidance of their veterinarian.
After spending time outside, check your pet for ticks before bringing them inside.
Regularly wash pet bedding.
If possible, keep your dogs off of furniture and beds.
Routinely vacuum the floors of your home to pick up any stray ticks.

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