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Category: Ticks

  • Tick vs Bed Bug: Know All About Them

    Tick vs Bed Bug: Know All About Them

    Introduction to Tick vs Bed Bug

    This guide on Tick vs Bed Bug will walk you through the process of recognizing these pests and getting the facts right about the dangers they cause.

    Ticks and bed bugs are small, blood-sucking pests. You may not realise but they can be a huge nuisance to you and your pets. They are extremely different in their biology, behavior, and health hazards. Only a person who is aware of the differences can succeed in pest control and prevention.

    Tick vs Bed Bug: Major Differences

    Appearance

    • Ticks are arachnids that have eight legs and bed bugs are insects with six legs. But, tick larvae have six legs and in the later stages of development, they get eight.
    • Although, both the pests have flat oval bodies and they are brown in color. But they are not the same. On average, adult ticks range from about 3 to 4 mm, but after feeding, females can swell up to 10 mm. Bed bugs are around 5 to 6 mm, and they swell to approximately 7 mm after feeding.
    • Ticks could be of various colors such as gray, red, tan, patterned, and brown besides that, bed bugs are mostly reddish-brown in color only.
    • Although both ticks and bed bugs swell after feeding, but ticks do not change their shape much. While  bed bugs color changes to red or brown and they swell up after feeding on human blood.

    Bites

    • When untreated, tick bites may lead to life-threatening illnesses like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and more.
    • Bed bug bites result in small, red, itchy and at times burning rashes. These bites are generally found in groups or lines on the uncovered parts of the body like arms and legs. Bed bugs are nocturnal creatures and their bites can be irritating but they do not carry any diseases.
    • Ticks feed on the body by winding themselves tight into the skin and, therefore, they remain attached to the host for days. On the other hand, bed bugs only take a short meal and then they hide in their secret places.

    Habitat

    • In general, Ticks live outside only in the grassy, brushy, or wooded regions. To get to animals or humans, they have to stick there first. To go inside, ticks can hitch a ride on pets or clothing, however, they will not be able to make themselves a home in the indoor environment.
    • Bed bugs are indoor creatures and they are a nightmare for people and they have the potential to infest all the places they sleep, furniture, and any cracks in the house, hotel, and public transportation. They conceal themselves not only in mattress seams, bed frames, couches, but also in suitcases, it makes it so easy for them to be everywhere they want.
    • Though ticks lay eggs outside in bunches, bed bug eggs are small, pale, and stuck to things inside near their hosts.

    Diseases Caused by Bed Bugs

    As a matter of fact, bed bugs can arise health problems to people who get frequent exposure to them. The CDC, EPA, and other authoritative medical institutions state that bed bugs cannot be the cause of the transmission of any diseases among humans through their bites. Still, bed bug infestation can become a source of:

    • An allergic reaction (from slight scratching to anaphylaxis of a serious stage)
    • Secondary skin infections (diseases such as impetigo, ecthyma, and lymphangitis) which are caused by scratching and thus by introducing bacteria into the skin
    • Mental health impacts (the anxiety, insomnia, and stress, which are caused by the persistent presence of infestations).

    List of the Diseases Caused by Ticks

    Tick-borne-diseases

    Here are 10 most common tick borne diseases which can be life threatening as well are:

    1. Lyme Disease
    2. Anaplasmosis
    3. Babesiosis
    4. Ehrlichiosis
    5. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
    6. Alpha-Gal Syndrome (Meat Allergy)
    7. Colorado Tick Fever
    8. Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness
    9. Relapsing Fever
    10. Bartonellosis

    Remember, these are names of only a few tick borne diseases, however consult a professional before coming onto conclusions.

    Conclusion: Tick vs bed bug

    When you are aware, it helps you to take the right action against these pests. People who  make the right decision with respect to the pest control measures and safety of their health effectively, are able to understand and prevent Tick vs Bed Bug.

  • The Lone Star Tick

    The Lone Star Tick

    The lone star tick is an extremely aggressive insect that is generally found in the woods and grassy areas. Additionally, this tick is not only passively but actively looking for hosts, it makes no difference whether they are humans or pets and as such, it is going to be the most wanted.

    The lone star tick can give you a few diseases that include-

    1. Ehrliciosis
    2. Tularemia
    3. Heartland virus
    4. STARI
    5. Its bite is also mentioned to be one of the causes of alpha-gal syndrome, which is a kind of meat allergy that in some cases can lead to very severe symptoms.

    What does a lone star tick look like

    Female adult lone star ticks have one white or silvery spot in the center of their red-brown back. This “lone star” marking is the only one and thus definitely the main reason for the tick’s name.

    Male adults, on the other hand, are missing the white central spot but have white streaks or spots on the outer parts of their bodies.

    The number of the legs for both male and female is eight, and they have a flattened and oval body that becomes more rounded and gray after feeding.

    The lone star tick passes through four developmental phases during its lifetime egg, larva, nymph, and adult.

    Life Cycle

    • The larvae, which are also called “seed ticks,” are very small. They have six legs, and they do not have a white spot.
    • The nymphs are a little bigger, about the size of a poppy seed, and they have eight legs but no central dot. Adult females are the only ones who get the trademark white dot.
    • Unfed adult females are about 1/6 to 1/4 inch, but after they have sucked, they can become 1/2 inch or more.
    • Moreover, the lone star tick such as a shaded and woody environment is their favorite and they are most active from spring to the late summer when they are sitting on the grass or branches and waiting for a host to come by.

    Lone star tick on dogs

    The presence of a lone star tick on dog will definitely be a great concern for pet owners. No matter what, the tick will find a spot to attach itself to your dog. The most common areas are head, ears, neck, and sometimes, between the toes.

    The lone star tick on dog causes diseases like ehrlichiosis and tularemia. The symptoms are-

    • Fever
    • Lethargy
    • Loss of appetite
    • Joint pain
    • Swollen lymph nodes
    • Even neurological issues.

    Some dogs may not show signs of illness, so it is best to see them closely over time. If you find a lone star tick on dog, do not hesitate:

    • Take a pair of fine-point tweezers or any tick removal tool and grab the tick with pressure from your dog’s skin. Pull it straight out gently. Be careful along the process.
    • Avoid home remedies like heat because it does not help to resolve the issue. After removing the tick, wash the bitten area properly.
    • In case your veterinarian needs to determine the tick later, place it in a closed container or under rubbing alcohol. You should monitor your dog to see any signs of sickness. In case you notice any symptoms like fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, do not be wait to call your vet.
    • Blood tests might be necessary to confirm diseases transmitted by ticks and in most cases, antibiotics like doxycycline are administered.

    Preventive Measures

    • Use the tick control products that are approved by the veterinarian and may be oral, topical, or a tick collar throughout the year.
    • Once you are outdoors, make sure you check your dog thoroughly, particularly in the places where ticks tend to hide.
    • Keep your yard trimmed and mowed, clear leaf litter and reduce the brush level. These measures not only minimize the chances of a lone star tick on dog but also ensure that your pet is healthy.

    Conclusion

    Lone Star Tick is an aggressive species of ticks. They are harmful to you and your pets. You have to take proper measures to protect your family’s health and your pets from the diseases and discomfort caused by the lone star tick.

  • How to Get Rid of Ticks and Save Your Pets

    How to Get Rid of Ticks and Save Your Pets

    How To Get Rid of Ticks is not only a seasonal concern, but a year-round concern. Ticks are not just icky. Ticks are those little parasites that spread everywhere, grassy, wooded, and even urban areas in the United States. They are a huge problem as they stick to pets and humans and feed on the blood while they have the potential to carry diseases.

    That’s why understanding How to Get Rid of Ticks is a must for any health-conscious pet parent if the wellness of their family members is their concern as well.

    7 Ways on How to Get Rid of Ticks

    1. Inspect Your Pets Daily

    Make sure you give your pets a thorough check for ticks after coming from outside. You must always check the main areas like their paws, armpits, and tail.

    2. Remove Ticks Properly

    If you find a tick, do not worry, you can and will get rid of them. The only thing you need is a pair of tweezers with fine-tipped ends or a tick-removal tool. Grab the tick and safely and straightly, without twisting, pull it out.

    In this way, you can ensure that you took out the tick. Never ever touch the tick with your bare hands as this could cause you to get bitten.

    3. Clean the Bite area

    After removing the tick, you have to apply rubbing alcohol or antiseptic cleanser. Apply the cleanser to the bitten area and make it clean. Secure the tick in a tight container and pour the rubbing alcohol over it to kill it.

    4. Use Tick Preventive Products

    Visit a vet and take the best tick prevention products for your pet. There are various options including-

    • Topical treatments
    • Oral medicines
    • Collars
    • Anti tick shampoos

    Do not forget to pick dawn products and comply with the given instructions. Most of the available preventives also protect against other parasites like fleas and heartworms.

    5. Treat Your Home and Yard

    One way of tick transmission is through your pets that can be indoors. Rolls down and vacuum after your pet’s bedding every week Apa SO Sofas and floors for very well Cleaning. Pest control is also an alternative. It can be a professional exterminator who can help you out, in case the infestation is really bad.

    In the open, simple measures can be effective in restricting tick habitation, such as cutting the grass low, clearing the leaves, and cutting back the bushes. Don’t take your little friends out to places with high grass or lots of trees, especially during the ticking-hot seasons.

    6. Monitor Your Pet’s Health

    If your pet has been bitten by a tick, observe any changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or general energy/fatigue levels. Contact the vet if you see any weird symptoms. Keep in mind that some diseases that are transmitted by ticks may not be diagnosed until weeks or even months. Due to this the infection starts spreading and you do not have a clue. This is why you need to be very careful at all times.

    7. Treat All Pets

    You must look after each one of your pets. Make sure that you treat them all equally at so as not to spread it from one pet to another.

    If you adhere to these directions, you will definitely know How to Get Rid of Ticks and you will be able to save your family and pets from the problems caused by ticks.

    What Eats Ticks?

    Nature itself has already preordained for the existence of pests whose main role is to keep the community in balance. For those who are curious about What Eats Ticks, the range of animals and insects that consumers of tick populations might.

    Animals That Consume Ticks

    Let’s check out a fast list of those that are on the prowl for the top tick catchers:

    • Birds: The birds’ species have been seen feeding on the ticks as they look for food in the grass and brush.
    • Reptiles and Amphibians: Lizards and toads eat ticks that they find on the ground.
    • Insects: There are also ants, beetles and spiders that prey on ticks – especially once they’re in larval form and more vulnerable to their predators. But do not forget that these animals themselves are not going to eradicate ticks off completely.

    Conclusion

    The ticks are not just a casual problem. They are a serious danger to the health of your pets and the comfort of your family. A quality approach allows you to master How to Get Rid of Ticks. It is important to keep a check on your pets every day to protect them from tick fever. To take the ticks off as soon as possible and in the right way, use vet-recommended preventives and to keep your home and yard tick-unfriendly.

    While it is an excellent idea to know What Eats Ticks, the nature is unreliable. Human help works effectively when you have combined your own with it. Stay watchful, keep your pets safe, and together enjoy every tick-free moment.

  • Tick Borne Diseases: 10 Threats You Must Know

    Tick Borne Diseases: 10 Threats You Must Know

    Ticks can spread Tick Borne Diseases to both pets and people. These are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that ticks transfer to humans or animals when they feed on them. These diseases are not just a bothersome factor, they are so severe. If the diseases are left untreated, the situation may get out of hand. Therefore, learning and realizing this fact as soon as possible about the mode of transmission of these diseases may be of a lot of help to your pet’s health.

    Top 10 Tick Borne Diseases with Their Symptoms

    1. Anaplasmosis-

    This disease, which is tick-borne and transmissible through the black-legged ticks, results in symptoms such as-

    • Fever
    • Energy loss
    • Joint pain
    • Time to time vomiting
    • Diarrhea

    The condition may also be presented as low platelet counts that eventually cause bleeding problems.

    2. Babesiosis-

    The parasites of Babesia are the ones that destroy red blood cells, thus, causing anemia.

    Signs of this disease are of such a clear nature as-

    • Pale mucous membranes
    • Icterus
    • Dark-colored urine
    • Fever
    • Lethargy

    It is evident that the serious forms of the disease are those that can bring about mere weakness and a significant decrease in weight.

    3. Bourbon Virus-

    It is a different kind and bourbon virus is very deadly.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • Fever
    • Fatigue
    • Rash
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Headache
    • Body aches
    • Diarrhea

     The most severe cases are the ones requiring professional medical care.

    4. Colorado Tick Fever-

    It a viral disease, is the reason for fever, chills, headache, body aches, and sometimes a rash. It’s most common in the western U.S.

    5. Ehrlichiosis-

    The infection of Ehrlichiosis, generally occurs from the bite of a brown dog tick.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • High temperature
    • Enlarged lymph nodes
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of appetite
    • Weight loss
    • Neurological disorders
    • Bleeding problems as well.

    6. Lyme Disease–

    Carried by various Borrelia bacteria, this infection results in recurrent problems.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • Fevers
    • Headaches
    • Muscle
    • Joint aches
    • Rash

    7. Crimean-Congo Fever- CCHF-

    It is another of the rare but very dangerous viruses carried by ticks in the USA.

    The symptoms include-

    • Fever
    • Tiredness
    • Headaches
    • Muscle pain
    • Loss of white blood cell counts in the body.
    • In extreme instances, it can lead to hospitalization.

    8. Lyme Disease-

    It is possible that Lyme disease is the most common disease of all.

    The symptoms include-

    • Swollen joints
    • Fever
    • Lack of appetite
    • Lethargy.
    • In some cases, it may harm the kidneys.

    9. Fast-Growing Spotted Fever-

    It causes a high fever, lack of appetite, painful lymph nodes, joint inflammation, vomiting, diarrhea, and a characteristic rash. Severe cases can progress to neurological symptoms and bleeding.

    10. STARI–

    Through carrying the bacteria and having symptoms of such, STARI can cause the person affected to be frightened.

    The symptoms usually include-

    • Fever
    • Fatigue
    • Muscle aches
    • Skin rash

    How Tick-Borne Diseases Are Spread

    Ticks do not jump or fly. As your dog goes through, the tick will attach itself and search for a biting spot, usually around the ears, neck, or under the legs. As soon as it attaches itself to you, the tick will insert its feeding tube and begin sucking blood immediately.

    The longer a tick feeds on the host, the higher the chances of disease transmission. For example, the Lyme disease bacteria mostly need 24-48 hours of attachment to spread. While some like those causing ehrlichiosis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever can transmit within a few hours. That’s why regular tick checks and relatively early removal are important.

    A solitary tick bite can pass more than a single illness. It is possible that dogs don’t have symptoms at first, for some signs might show up weeks, and even months post exposure.

    Conclusion

    For health-conscious pet parents, preventing your pets and your family from Tick Borne Diseases is a priority. A little prevention goes a long way in the battle against Tick Borne Diseases, so you and your pup can continue to enjoy the great outdoors without a care in the world.

  • Tick Types: Most Common in America

    Tick Types: Most Common in America

    Introduction to Types of Ticks

    Several Tick Types in America can be the carriers of dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. The knowledge of the most common Tick Types and the signs of tick growth in pets can be a certain protection for pets from these tick bites.

    5 Common Tick Types in the United States

    5 Tick Types that are currently in the United States, and that are most likely to come into contact with your dog are-

    1. American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)

    • The American dog tick has always been one of the most common Tick Types in the US. Adult specimens are about to be found just at first glance due to the combination of their brown bodies with white or silver markings on their backs. When engorged, female ticks change color to gray.
    • American dog ticks are well known for causing diseases like tularemia to dogs and humans. Dogs seem to be their preferred victims but they can easily switch to other species. For example, people in addition to cattle and wildlife.
    • These ticks are mainly seen in the spring and early summer. After a feast, the female tick may spawn thousands of eggs, hence an infestation is hard to be rectified. Ticks virtually never infest buildings but are quite a threat where there is a little canopy of trees outdoors.

    2. Blacklegged Tick

    • Western regions know it by the name blacklegged tick, and in the east, it goes by the name deer tick. The black-legged tick is tinier than the dog tick yet it is very dangerous. The adult black-legged tick is about 0.9×0.5mm in size and is almost two times smaller than the adult dog tick. They are usually found in grassy and woodland areas.
    • Due to global warming, the ticks are increasing. They are mostly present in the Midwest and Northeast and along the Pacific Coast. They are predominant in areas where the rodent reservoirs are and later transmits to humans.
    • These ticks are well known for being the transmitters of Lyme disease, as well as babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. Nymphs of these species are dangerous since they can hardly be detected. These tick species are active from spring to the end of autumn, and one bite can transmit Lyme disease if the tick is not removed in time.

    3. Lone Star Tick

    • This tick has a single white dot on the back of the adult female. Lone Star ticks are not only aggressive biters but are also very likely to bite dogs, humans, and wildlife. They cause red and itchy rashes and transmit ehrlichiosis, tularemia, as well as another disease-STARI.
    • Important- Some people, that have been bitten by the Lone Star ticks, become allergic to meat, and this disease is called alpha-gal syndrome. These ticks are most active during early spring and late fall.

    4. Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus)

    • Brown dog ticks are bicolored and have a conical, elongated form. The larvae, nymphs, and adults of this species are the cause of a theoretical illness called erliquiosis, amongst the symptoms of which are: headache, sore muscles, fever, etc. Toddlers, seniors, and the one with weaker immunity are the most likely to catch the infection.
    • Brown dog ticks are only found indoors, so their hosts are strictly limited to dogs, and they survive by remaining in one place an entire life-cycle. The ticks can move from a pet to its owner and cause severe symptoms. The transmission of the pathogens to the bloodstream can lead to the growth of the disease.

    5. Rocky Mountain Wood Tick (Dermacentor andersoni)

    • Rocky Mountain wood tick can be found in the states near Rocky Mountains and in the parts of the Pacific Northwest. These are similar to the American dog tick, which has a red-brown body with silver spots.
    • Mostly these ticks are active during the spring and the beginning of the summer. Their preferred habitats are grassy, bush, or forest areas in highlands. The infection by Rocky Mountain Wood Tick from one host to another can be Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, and tularemia.
    • Moreover, they have the potential to cause tick paralysis in canines and humans-a rare but very serious condition. If you go hiking or camping in the Rockies, don’t forget to check your dog (and yourself) in time after every outdoor adventure!

    Conclusion

    If you’re a pet owner, one of the responsibly common things to do is get yourself familiar with the Tick Types in America for dog protective measures and for the safety of your family.

    The thorough understanding of a species individual behavior, and risky diseases is quite crucial when it comes to seeking the best preventative measures while some other strategies like regular tick checks, unstoppable prevention, and on-time extraction will give the results. The constant protection of your pet (and yourself) against ticks is important.

  • Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick: A 2 Year Process

    Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick: A 2 Year Process

    The Life cycle of blacklegged tick or a deer tick. It is an extremely small spider-like creature that is known for giving Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis by its bite. These dangerous parasites are the reason for most of the infection cases with Lyme disease in 14 states in the northern part of the country. Ticks are carriers of the infectious agents and they are distributed to humans by a bite of the parasites during the absorption of human blood by the latter.

    Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick

    The Life Cycle of the blacklegged (Deer) tick, Ixodes scapularis, takes place during two or even three years and consists of the four stages:

    1. Egg Stage-

    In early spring, after feeding on a host, adult female blacklegged ticks lay thousands of eggs in moist, sheltered spots near animal trails or under leaf litter.

    These eggs are tiny, often red-brown in color, and almost invisible to the naked eye. Laying eggs in such strategic locations ensures the next generation will have easy access to passing hosts.

    2. Larva Stage-

    The eggs hatch into six-legged larvae, sometimes known as “seed ticks.” These larvae are really tiny-no larger than a grain of sand-hungry and thirsty for their first “blood” meal.

    The most delicious dishes for the newborn ticks are small mammals, such as a mouse or a bird such as a sparrow. They don’t spread the diseases while in the larvae stage, biting an unhealthy animal, they can acquire bacteria that cause Lyme disease.

     After three days of sucking, the larvae leaves the host, transforms into nymphs, and are often to be found in the hiding place.

    3. Nymph Stage-

    The following spring, nymphs are out and now with eight legs and a little bit bigger than their former size, approximately poppy seed in size.

    The danger with a Tick Life Cycle is its very next phase, i.e. nymphs.

    They are active at the period between May till July and are mainly responsible for the transmission of pathogens that cause tick-borne-diseases.

    The main reason is due to the fact that they are small, difficult to see and also they can pick up the infection from their larval feeding. The nymphs fall off the host after feeding, and molt once more to become adults.

    4. Adult Stage

    Adult blacklegged ticks are most likely to be seen in the fall and will continue being active throughout the winter if it never gets too cold. Adults are easier to spot due to their larger size. Females are easily identifiable by the red-brown body and black legs they have. This is the time the ticks move towards bigger hosts like deer, dogs, or even humans.

    Females need another full blood meal for reproducing, but males only mate and shortly thereafter, they die. Once the female has mates, she will lay eggs in the spring, and the Tick Life Cycle will begin again.

    Features of the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick–

    Host Switching- One of the features that distinguish Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick is that blacklegged ticks usually have a different host at every stage. This increases their exposure to a wide range of animals and thus the possibility of disease transmission. For pet owners, it means that the dog is likely to be exposed to ticks. He has been on wildlife before and were carrying dangerous pathogens.

    Conclusion: Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick

    The Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick is a process that starts with an egg and ends with an adult tick. Each stage being a chance for the tick to acquire a host and transmit disease. This article has explained the Tick Life Cycle and the best ways to avoid the tick seasons. This ensures that your dear pets do not fall sick from tick-borne diseases. It is important that you provide vet-approved products for tick prevention and make sure that your yard is always clean. It is worth noting that with knowledge and care, you can still enjoy your outdoor activities. Have fun with your pets in a safe, and a no-tick environment!

  • Bed Bug Vs Tick: Hidden Dangers at Home

    Bed Bug Vs Tick: Hidden Dangers at Home

    Bed bugs and ticks both are disgusting creatures. They suck the blood out of your body and can be very dangerous to you. They are totally different in the ways they live, the health threats they pose, and the ways in which they can enter your home. The hot topic of the bed bug vs tick dispute is usually started by pet owners. However, to be safe from the itchy bites and diseases that bed bugs and ticks can cause is to understand their unique characteristics.

    bed-bug-vs-tick

    Tick vs. Bed Bug: How to Know If It’s a Tick or a Bed Bug

    The physical appearances of these pests show that at a distance, they are similar in size, both wingless, and round. But after close examination, the differences are clear to see:

    • Size and Shape: The common bed bug measures 4-5 mm in length ( apple seed), is elongated, and flattens out.

    Ticks are usually smaller, around 3-5 mm, but when they get bloated with blood, their size can be triple and reach 10 mm. Right after feeding, the ticks become swollen, whereas the bed bugs still look somewhat thin.

    • Color: Bed bugs change from red or brown and become more transparent after they have swollen up due to the blood. Ticks are initially brown or dark brown, but when they feed, they may become grey or light red.
    • Legs: Insects have six legs, which is true of the bed bug, while ticks have eight legs.
    • Movement: One of the more basic ways of identifying them is that bed bugs search for a host that they can suck blood from, sometimes, they roam around without the host even realizing it. Ticks, on the contrary, remain in a passive state known as “questing,” where they simply lie in hiding on leaves and appears not to be moving.

    If you see a bug with eight legs and a round inflated body hanging onto your dog, it is probably a tick. If the bug is flat, the color is red-brown, and it is seen under your bed, then most likely it is a bed bug.

    A Guide on How to Distinguish Tick Bites vs Bed Bug Bites

    bed-bug

    Both bugs can cause irritated and itchy marks, but their appearance, effects, and ways of transmission differ:

    Bed Bug Bites-

    • These are usually small, red, and itchy spots that are frequently in lines or groups on the skin that is exposed, e.g. arms, neck, or back.
    • Bed bugs prefer to bite the same place several times, usually at night, after what they go back to their shelters.
    • Bed bug bites are certainly very uncomfortable and sometimes can cause allergic reactions to humans or pets.
    • However, they are still the non-carriers and not the source of diseases to the man and pets.

    Tick Bites:

    • Ticks adhere to the host’s skin and suck blood there for more than one day.
    • Afterward, the bite is first quite unexpressed and people do not feel anything but the tick continues to adhere.
    • If the tick brings a disease, the symptoms will probably appear later as a spot or sore area, fever, or muscle and joint aches.
    • The following are common diseases caused by tick bite-
    • Lyme disease
    • Rocky Mountain spotted fever
    • Anaplasmosis
    • Ehrlichiosis
    • Ticks-thus posing a greater health risk than bed bug bites.

    Real-life example: Imagine your dog is continuously rubbing behind the ear. Your search reveals a tick that has anchored. This is a common sign of tick bite. On the contrary, a person who wakes up with a sense of itching, crosses over the arm, with small reddened hives, and this may be a sign of bed bug bites.

    The Places They Live and the Signs of an Infestation

    Knowing the environment where these bugs can be found and their penetration into your house will aid you in taking preventive measures:

    Bed Bugs: These are some of the most common pests that are found in the house and they are mostly found indoors and can be found in the folds of the mattress, the bed frame, the furniture, behind the wallpaper or the socket when they are not draining their food sources by feeding on humans. Bed bugs are nighttime insects and only come out at night to feed.

    tick

    Ticks: Ticks are commonly found in grass or woods. A very common way for ticks to get onto people and pets is through hikes in the mentioned environments. Ticks may choose to travel indoors by most commonly clinging on the clothes of people or the fur of animals. Ticks do not colonize indoors like bed bugs do, but they may still be present in household spaces. They can attach themselves to animals or be hidden in pet beddings.

    • You will find ticks on your pet’s fur around the ears, neck, and underbelly.
    • Ticks on your own skin or clothing after being outdoors.

    Note- While it’s almost always a bed bug if it’s found in your bed! Ticks usually are on the pets or humans.

    Conclusion: Bed Bug vs Tick

    The difference between bed bug vs tick is critical to the well-being of both owners and pets. Bed bugs, at the most, cause itchy bites. However, they do not spread diseases. But Ticks transfer dangerous bacteria and viruses to humans and animals. Therefore, it is important to know their habits. It will help recognize early warning signs to make your home safe, healthy and pest-free.

  • Natural Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

    Natural Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

    I am assuming you are among the vast majority of pet owners who have a sincere wish for your pet to stay healthy and happy. You do not want your pet to suffer from harsh chemical treatments. In this case, a natural flea and tick prevention for dogs can be your saviour. This not only grants you peace of mind but also provides a much-needed itch-free summer for your beloved pet.

    Profits from organic and eco-friendly companies are on the rise since pet parents want to keep their pets safe!

    Introduction To Natural Flea and Tick Control

    It’s not only that fleas and ticks are a bother because they can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and transmit canine diseases.  Using natural flea and tick control is essential. They help not only in getting rid of the bugs in a more natural way but are also contributing to the less polluted world. And I’ve seen people wanting more and more eco-friendly products.

    5 Ways to Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks Naturally

    Ways-to-Get-Rid-of-Fleas-and-Ticks-Naturally

    Educate yourself about the natural options that Mother Nature provides for keeping the house and your pet free from fleas and ticks. Here are a few natural methods:

    1. Yard Hygiene: It has been scientifically proven that flea exposure can be reduced by taking care of your lawn hygiene. Mashed lawn, for instance, can not only be infected by ticks and flea eggs but also be a home and a well-furnished dining area for them.
    2. Use Oils: Animals attract mites, fleas, and ticks because of their odor. Essential oils like cedarwood can be used. You just have to dilute them with water. The essential oils serve as a natural method to keep ticks and fleas away without the risks of toxic chemicals.
    3. Diatomaceous Earth: Food-grade diatomaceous earth serves as a natural flea killer when you spread it on carpets and bedding and scatter it across your yard. The natural dehydration properties of this powder eliminate fleas effectively. Make sure to avoid exposing your dog’s eyes and lungs to this substance.
    4. Bathing and Grooming of Pets: Mild pet-safe shampoo during regular baths effectively removes fleas and ticks from your pet. A flea comb should be used between baths to remove any remaining fleas.
    5. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: Spray your dog with apple cider vinegar mixed solution through a bottle while avoiding their face area. The scent from this mixture protects dogs from fleas and ticks while remaining harmless to their health.

    Natural Tick and Flea Control for your Pet Dogs

    Consistency is key when it comes to Natural Tick and Flea Control for dogs!

    • Daily checks: Running your hands through your dog’s fur after outdoor activities helps you detect hitchhikers and take timely measures.
    • Natural Sprays: Essential oils with an active ingredient like cedar or peppermint will help. Such products can keep your pet safe all the time with no side effects from chemicals.
    • Environmental Control: Handle your house and garden with the same care you give your pet. The flea life cycle can be interrupted through regular vacuuming and washing dog bedding and applying natural repellents to both indoor and outdoor areas.
    • Good Health: The main focus of the wellness process should be on-
      • Good nutrition
      • Regular exercise
      • Stress reduction

    In case you are living in a high-risk area or your dog is an outdoor pet most of the time, then natural product aid from your vet will be a great help. Combining natural ways with vet-recommended products will give your dog complete protection.

    Healthy Diet Plan for your Dogs

    • A strong immune system is the first step of a natural defense strategy for the health of your dog. Feeding your dog a fresh, whole-food diet -a good blend of lean meats, veggies, and healthy fats – can be the first thing you should consider if you want to keep the fleas and ticks away. On the contrary, over-processed food and sugar can attract pests.
    • Supplements: By the recommendation of the veterinarian, few types of supplements like Brewer’s yeast, omega-3 fatty acids, or a small dose of garlic are known to have anti-flea properties.
    • Hydration: Clean water and the right diet ensures the skin of your dog is always in a healthy condition.

    Flea and Tick Pills for Dogs

    Flea-and-Tick-Pills-for-Dogs

    Natural means of repelling pests are good, but at times, you need something more that during peak flea & ticks season. This is where flea and tick pills for dogs come into play.

    These pills that are given by mouth are recommended by a veterinarian and provide long-lasting defense against fleas and ticks, since they also kill the pests that are inside the dog. The flea and tick pills can be a real game-changer for dogs that have sensitive skin.

    Always follow your vet’s advice when using flea and tick pills for dogs. Discuss any health concerns or potential medication interactions before starting.

    Conclusion

    Do not make the mistake of thinking that you can only save your dog from fleas and ticks by choosing either one of the safety measures. For example, by using natural flea and tick prevention for dogs , it is possible to keep your beloved pet free from fleas and tickles and happy and healthy. Besides that, the combination of these smart habits, a balanced diet, and, if required, flea and tick pills for dogs are also important.