Ticks are usually thought of as outdoor pests, but that doesn’t mean your home is safe from them. Whether they hitch a ride in on a pet, your clothes, or even firewood, finding a tick inside your house is more than just unsettling—it’s a potential health concern. If you’ve discovered ticks in your home, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do next to protect your family and reclaim your space.
Step 1: Identify the Tick
First, take a closer look (with gloves or tweezers) and try to identify the type of tick. In Maine, the most common types are the deer tick (which can transmit Lyme disease) and the dog tick. Knowing what type of tick you’re dealing with can help assess the risk and inform your next steps.
Step 2: Remove the Tick Safely
If you find a tick on a pet or person, remove it carefully using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Don’t twist or jerk—this can cause parts of the tick to break off. Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water afterward.
Step 3: Check for More
If there’s one tick, there could be more. Do a full-body check of yourself, your family, and your pets—especially after outdoor activities. Inspect common hiding spots like under arms, behind knees, and around ears. Also, vacuum your home thoroughly, paying close attention to carpets, pet bedding, and upholstered furniture.
Step 4: Wash and Contain
Wash all clothing, pet bedding, and blankets in hot water and dry them on high heat. Ticks are sensitive to temperature, and heat can help kill any that may be lingering. If you find a tick on your pet, consult your veterinarian for a proper treatment plan.
Step 5: Call the Professionals
If ticks are showing up regularly inside your home, it’s time to bring in the experts. At Proactive Pest, we specialize in tick control that goes beyond surface-level fixes. Our local team understands the unique tick problems that homeowners in Penobscot and Hancock Counties face, and we’re here to help with tailored treatments that address both the source and the symptoms.
Ticks are not just a nuisance—they’re a health hazard. Our experienced technicians can inspect your property, treat infested areas, and provide proactive guidance to help prevent future issues. Whether you’ve seen one tick or several, we’ll work with you to make sure your home is safe and comfortable again.
Stay Tick-Free with Trusted Local Help
Finding ticks in your home is unsettling, but you’re not alone. Proactive Pest is just a call away at (207) 477-7446. We’ll help you handle the problem swiftly, safely, and effectively—with a local touch you can trust.