Ticks in the PNW: What Homeowners & Pet Owners Need to Know
Ticks are becoming a growing concern throughout the Pacific Northwest, including coastal communities and wooded areas across Washington and Oregon. Wild milder winters, increased wildlife activity, and more people spending time outdoors, tick encounters are becoming more common each year.
At Eradipest, we’ve been seeing increased concern from homeowners and pet owners looking for ways to protect their families, pets, and properties from ticks.
Why Are Ticks a Problem?
Ticks are more than just a nuisance. These tiny parasites feed on blood of animals and humans and can carry harmful diseases. While not every tick carries disease, it’s important to take prevention seriously.
Some tick borne illnesses found in the Pacific Northwest include:
- Lyme disease
- Anaplasmosis
- Rocky Mountain Spotted fever
- Tick borne relapsing fever
Symptoms from tick borne illnesses can vary but may include fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches and rashes.
Where Are Ticks Commonly Found?
Ticks thrive in areas with moisture, shade and vegetation. In the PNW, they are commonly found in:
- Tall grass
- Brush and overgrown landscaping
- Wooded trails
- Leaf litter
- Around wildlife
- Along property edges
Ticks often wait on vegetation and latch onto animals or people as they brush past.
Pets Are Especially Vulnerable
Dogs and outdoor cats are particularly at risk because ticks can easily hide in their fur. Pets can bring ticks indoors, increasing the chance of human exposure. We strongly encourage pet owners to:
- Keep pets on veterinarian approved tick prevention products
- Check pets after walks or outdoor play
- Wash pet bedding regularly (this helps with fleas too)
- Keep grass and landscaping maintained
Early prevention is one of the best ways to protect your pets from tick related illnesses.
How To Reduce Tick Activity Around Your Property
Tick prevention starts with habitat reduction. Making your yard less inviting to ticks can significantly reduce activity. Helpful tick prevention steps include:
- Mowing tall grass regularly
- Trimming
- Remove leaf piles and yard debris
- Reducing rodent and wildlife harborage
- Creating barriers between wooded areas and lawns
- Keeping play areas and pet spaces clean
- Treating your yard by a professional
Professional Tick Treatments
At Eradipest, we offer professional outdoor treatments designed to help reduce tick activity around homes and properties. Treatment plans can be tailored to your environment and concerns.
Our goal is to help provide a safer outdoor space for your family and pets while using effective, targeted treatment methods.
Tick Checks Matter
Even with prevention, it’s important to perform regular tick checks after spending time outdoors. The sooner a tick is removed, the lower the chance of disease transmission.
Protect Your Family & Pets This Season
As tick populations continue to increase in the PNW, prevention and awareness are more important than ever. Staying proactive with yard maintenance, pet protection, and professional treatments can help reduce risks around your home.
If you’re concerned about ticks on your property, contact Eradipest to learn more about our outdoor treatment options and prevention services.
Eradipest
Serving the Long Beach coast to Cannon Beach, Oregon with over 35 years experience.
888-881-7333
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