How to Protect Your Landscape and Pets from Fleas and Ticks in Florida
Even if you’re not a pet owner in Florida, having a landscape that is infested with fleas and ticks can be a massive problem for both humans and dogs alike. Ticks especially are more than just a nuisance. They also spread diseases like Lyme and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Florida’s desirable warm and humid climate is perfect for insects like fleas and ticks to survive year-round. As temperatures increase, fleas and ticks flourish.
Whether you’re a pet owner or a homeowner looking for yard treatments for fleas and ticks, this article is for you. We’ll cover different ways you can prevent fleas and ticks on dogs, as well as fleas and ticks prevention for yards and landscaping.
How to Prevent Fleas and Ticks in Florida Landscaping
Getting rid of insects can be an overwhelming job. While there are many different tips and tricks, we’ll cover below for flea and tick prevention. Usually, the safest and most effective way to deal with these insects is by hiring a company that offers integrated pest management services.
Mowing and pruning your lawn is one of the best ways to help with pest prevention. This is a deceptively simple task as it can be a quite time-consuming and complex process. For example, if you incorrectly prune a tree or shrubbery, this could lead to a hefty fine, depending on where you live. At the very least, it could ruin the visual aesthetic of your landscaping and take time and money to fix the issue.
Another good tip for flea and tick prevention in Florida is creating a “perimeter” around your landscaping. If your property is located near a field or wooded area, you may want to create a “dead zone” by building a path with mulch or gravel that will act as a buffer for your home. Ticks and fleas don’t like crawling over these materials and are less likely to enter your yard.
How to Prevent Fleas and Ticks on Dogs
Besides making your landscaping as inhospitable to fleas and ticks as possible, there are five main ways to protect your pet from these pests:
- Topical Medications – These are flea and tick medications that a pet owner will apply directly to their pet’s coat or fur. It is usually used between the shoulder blades or at the base of the neck and is effective for several weeks.
- Shampoos – Shampoos are a practical solution if you are immediately concerned about an infestation on your pet. However, they are only effective for a short period and won’t prevent fleas and ticks from returning.
- Oral Medications – This is a prescription-only treatment that is given monthly. Be aware that some dogs can develop side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, hives, depression, or lack of appetite.
- Collars – Collars are a pet accessory that contains chemicals that are slowly released into your pet’s body that kill fleas and ticks.
- A dip – Dips are concentrated versions of flea and tick shampoos that are not rinsed off the pet. Do not use this type of treatment on young pets or pregnant animals, as it can be hazardous.
Yard Treatment for Fleas and Ticks
Prevention is the best line of defense against fleas and ticks for pets, but once you do have an infestation, chemical treatment of your landscaping is the best way to get rid of these insects. While some pest management services would tent the infected area and blanket the whole lawn with dangerous chemicals, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a more precise and efficient way of dealing with these pests. A company that offers integrated pest management services will be able to use treatments of the highest quality and only treat the infected areas to help minimize the loss of beneficial insects and mitigate the adverse effects of harsh chemicals on the environment.
If you’re looking for flea and tick treatment for your landscaping, it’s best to contact the professionals at Cutters Edge. We offer integrated pest management services that can safely and effectively eliminate any unwanted pests in your lawn or landscaping. We are proud to serve the Tri-county area and lead the landscape industry in all of Broward. From Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Coral Spring, Weston, Plantation, Tamarac and Sunrise to Lauderhill, Oakland Park, Dania Beach, Pompano Beach, Hallandale and Miami Gardens. Contact us today for a free quote or to discuss your specific concerns!
