What You Should Know About Fleas & Ticks

by CL Hendricks

Overview

Ticks are one type of parasitic insect.

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Fleas and ticks are parasitic insects that live off the blood of their hosts. They can affect humans, but primarily affect furred animals, where they can hide in the fur. They cause discomfort to their host and can transmit diseases. Controlling flea and tick infestations is a multimillion-dollar business.
Causes

Fleas and ticks thrive in warm climates. Any warm-blooded mammal can pick up fleas and ticks. If those animals come inside the home, those parasites can transfer to you as well as around your home.

Symptoms

Small, red, itchy spots are the main symptom of flea and tick bites. Animals may have dry skin and frequently attempt to get rid of the insects by biting themselves.
Health Dangers

Flea bites can spread pneumonic and bubonic plague, typhus, and spotted fever. Tick bites can cause Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, babesiosis, tularemia and tick paralysis.
Elimination

For pets, use shampoos, sprays, drops and flea collars. Ticks can be picked off you or your pet with tweezers. For the house, use carpet powder, bug bombs and professional pest control.
Prevention

The best way to handle fleas and ticks is to prevent them before they start. Cleaning your house and pets frequently are the best preventative measures. Grooming your pet regularly can help you catch ticks before they do any damage.