and your pets!
PART VI: Tick Bite Prevention Week
As we strive to safeguard ourselves and our furry companions from the dangers of tick bites, let’s explore some practical tips for protecting against these persistent pests.
Check Your Clothes: Even if you’re wearing long sleeves and pants, ticks can still cling to your clothing. After outdoor activities, carefully inspect your attire, paying close attention to areas like pants, socks, and shoes where ticks may lurk. If you find a tick, promptly remove it from your clothing and wash the items in hot water. A quick tumble in the dryer on high heat can also eliminate any hidden ticks.
Check Your Body: Upon returning indoors, conduct a thorough tick check on your body. Utilize a mirror to inspect hard-to-reach areas like the back of the knees, inside of the legs, around the waist, under the arms, behind the ears, and within head hair. Ticks seek warm, moist areas to latch onto, so be diligent in examining these common hiding spots.
Check Your Pets: Our furry friends are also susceptible to tick bites, so be sure to check them thoroughly after outdoor adventures. Run your hands through their fur, feeling for any small bumps that could indicate a tick. Pay close attention to areas around the ears, underneath the collar, along the legs and between the toes, and in and around the tail.
By incorporating these simple yet effective practices into our routine, we can reduce the risk of tick bites for ourselves and our beloved pets. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and together, let’s enjoy the great outdoors while staying safe from tickborne diseases. #ProtectYourself #TickBitePreventionWeek 🦟🚫