Triangle Area Real Estate News & Information

Summer is around the corner, and here in North Carolina that often means an abundance of ticks and the problems they can bring like Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Fever.

While I am unaware of any method of completely avoiding ticks I do have some suggestions for minimizing the likelihood of your having a problem.

How To Protect Your Pets From Ticks

Pets need to be protected, and you have a number of options including products like Frontline, Bio-spot etc. If you typically put your pet out during the day in a fenced in yard you might also want tot consider treating the entire area. I tend to prefer natural or organic methods for broad application and have had good luck with diatomaceous earth. (sometimes sold under the name of PermaGuart) This is a safe and relatively inexpensive method. This product while safe for humans and pets is a very fine crystalline earth that basically cuts the offending pests with its sharp edges. It’s effective for a number of pests, though it needs to be reapplied after heavy rains. I have friends who have also suggested using a product Biorganic which is a clove oil based product.

If you’re willing to use stronger poisons, you’ll want to consider the following products: Sevin Dust, or Spectracide. Both are widely available at local retail gardening outlets.

Ticks like shady areas where animals would typically lie down to rest. Keep these areas around your home trimmed down and cleared of ground cover if possible.

Protect Yourself From Ticks

If you’re going out on a hike or working in your garden you’ll want to protect yourself. Apply repellant to your clothing, socks, trousers etc. If you’re wearing shorts, be certain to apply some to your ankles and calves. When you get back be certain to check yourself and others carefully. If you do find yourself with a tick bite, note the day and watch the area carefully over the next 10-14 days. If you see any inflammation, red lines radiating from the bite or possible signs of an infection, go see your doctor. In most cases it’s probably not a serious disease, but when it comes to ticks, it’s better to be safe than sorry.