As temperatures rise and climate patterns shift, tick season is starting earlier, lasting longer, and spreading further. If you spend time outside or have pets that venture outdoors, be cautious of ticks in your own backyard. Consumer Reports recommends several simple steps to protect yourself and pets.
Keeping your yard tick-free starts with grass maintenance. Keep tall grass cut to three inches, and consider mulching grass clippings instead of bagging them. Remove leaves, leaf piles, and debris that provide shade for ticks. If you live near wooded areas, installing a fence or creating a barrier using dry wood chips or gravel can help keep deer away.
Next, trim tall grasses, weeds, and low-hanging branches around your property. Avoid using pesticides, which can be toxic. Instead, use tick tubes containing poison that coats the skin of mice, killing ticks and reducing populations over time.
When spending time outdoors, always check yourself and pets for ticks after showering within a few hours. This simple habit can make a big difference in preventing tick-borne illnesses.
Source: https://www.newschannel5.com/money/consumer/consumer-reports/defend-against-ticks-simple-strategies-to-protect-your-yard-pets-from-infestation