Fall is in full swing here in Spokane, Washington. Even though the temperatures are dropping, ticks are still active this season. In addition to keeping your pet on year-round tick prevention, check out these three ways to minimize your two- and four-legged family members’ exposure to ticks.

#1: Clean organic debris and waste from your yard

The leaves that fall and build up in your yard create the perfect environment for ticks and, more importantly, the wildlife hosts that feed ticks. Create an unattractive habitat for parasites and wild animals by removing leaf litter, brush, stones, and lumber. Trim back overhanging tree branches and overgrown bushes to increase sun exposure. Direct sunlight in hot, dry areas helps repel ticks by creating an inhospitable environment. 

#2: Mow your grass to the appropriate height

A shorter lawn will put more stress on your grass but will also discourage ticks from settling in. Ticks prefer the cool, shady, and moist habitat provided by longer grass, which also offers protection from insect-eating birds. Keep your yard mowed to about two to three inches to compel ticks to find another home while still keeping your lawn in good shape.

#3: Cultivate pest-repelling plants

Plants such as thyme, catnip, rosemary, wormwood, chrysanthemums, pennyroyal, citronella, geraniums, and eucalyptus are believed to naturally deter a wide variety of insects, including ticks, mosquitoes, flies, and wasps. Growing these plants in your yard may not only keep away ticks but also add beauty to your lawn.

Make sure your beloved pet is on year-round tick prevention in addition to reducing your home’s curb appeal to ticks. Contact us to go over flea and tick preventive options for your pet.