May is Lyme disease awareness month in the North Shore.

May is Lyme Disease Awareness month and our goal here at Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is to raise awareness of the importance of safe tick practices such as tick identification and proper tick removal. One way we are helping residents of the North Shore gain knowledge of tick safety is by learning how to properly identify a tick. Different species of ticks carry different diseases and it is important to be able to identify the type of tick you are dealing with.

All sizes of deer ticks are capable of transmitting Lyme disease to you and your dog.

Ticks that are prevalent in the North Shore area are the deer tick (or blacklegged tick), and the American dog tick. Both nymph (young) and adult deer ticks will bite humans. The highest risk of being bitten by a deer tick occurs throughout the spring, summer and fall seasons. However, adults can also be out searching for a host any time winter temperatures are above freezing. Deer tick nymphs are the size of a poppy seed and deer tick adults are the size of a sesame seed. Deer ticks are responsible for the spread of Lyme Disease, Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis. Although rare, it is also possible to contract more than one tick-borne illness at once from a single tick. This is what is referred to as comorbid tick disease. Generally, the most common form of comorbidity is Lyme Disease and Babesiosis or Lyme Disease and Anaplasmosis combinations.

American Dog tick

The American dog tick is responsible for the spread of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia. In general, only the adult dog tick will bite humans. The highest risk of being bitten by a dog tick occurs during the spring and summer seasons. Adult dog ticks are about the size of a watermelon seed.

Proper removal of tick

The most important thing to remember if you do find an attached tick on yourself, a member of your family or even your pet is not panic. Becoming anxious and panicking can lead to improper removal of the tick itself which can perpetuate the spread of a potential disease in many cases, so stay calm. There are several tick removal devices on the market, but according to the CDC, a plain set of fine-tipped tweezers will remove a tick quite effectively. First use the tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skins surface as is possible. Once you have a firm grasp on the tick pull upward applying steady pressure. Never twist, jerk or manipulate the tick in any way because this will lead to breakage of the tick’s mouthparts which can lead to them staying intact in your skin. In case this happens, carefully remove the mouth parts with tweezers as well. Following removal clean the bite area with iodine, alcohol or soap and water. If you develop a rash or fever within several weeks of removing a tick, see your doctor. Be sure to tell the doctor about your recent tick bite, when the bite occurred, and where you most likely acquired the tick. It is even suggested to keep the tick in an empty medicine bottle or other container in case you experience symptoms of Lyme Disease. In many cases, having the tick will allow for further testing if needed to properly diagnose and treat the disease.

The new Lyme Disease application for iPhones will alert you if you are in a tick infested area via GPS.

The American Lyme Disease Foundation has joined forces with Yale School of Public Health and the US Centers for Disease Control in introducing a new “high tech” way to aid in identifying ticks, and to reduce the risk of being in a highly tick prevalent area without being aware of it. A Lyme disease application for iPhones will inform users on the abundance of infected ticks at their specific location (within the US) as determined by GPS. If ticks are determined to be present, the user is given a list of precautions to avoid tick-bites. A tick identification chart is provided with life-size photos of deer ticks so that each life stage can be determined. The app also provides instruction on how to properly remove a tick along with a narrated video. This resource takes users a step further by outlining the symptoms of Lyme Disease, advising users to seek medical attention when they feel a tick has been attached 48 hours or longer, or are experiencing symptoms they may be infected. The application even includes a physician locater to find the doctor nearest to you, again using GPS location, and provides the phone number and directions to each physician’s office.  This innovative application called “Lyme Disease Tick Map” became available on the Apple iTunes store on April 30, 2010 amid outstanding reviews.

The cotton in this photo is from a tick tube laid out last year. The rodent takes the cotton back to its nest,

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is taking Lyme Disease awareness a step further by providing a tick control program that is focused on eliminating your exposure to potentially infected ticks within your yard. We combine tick tube implementation with our highly effective barrier spray program to eradicate both deer ticks and American dog ticks within your treated area. Our proven combination targets ticks at various stages of their life cycle and can reduce the amount of ticks that could be carrying Lyme Disease in your yard by up to 90%.

Contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore today to learn more about our effective tick control program and spread the word to your friends and neighbors because communication is the key to raising the awareness and success of reducing the cases of  Lyme Disease here in Massachusetts. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 -1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Please follow this link to learn more about getting the Lyme Disease application for your iphone https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lyme-disease-tick-map/id369913510?mt=8

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is helping wage war on ticks and the diseases they carry.

The North Shore welcomes the arrival of spring with open arms. Just like any other area of the U.S. we look forward to warmer longer days, being able to hang the jackets up until fall and the beginning of outdoor sports and recreational opportunities. Along with the many joys of spring comes the dread in knowing tick season is right around the corner. Ticks carry a host of tick-borne illness and disease and among the most prevalent in the North Shore is Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is endemic all across Massachusetts and other notable tick-borne illnesses are also on the rise such as Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Tularemia and Anaplasmosis. Medical advances in treating these diseases continue to evolve, but at this point there is no magic pill or immunization to prevent us from being infected by one of these diseases if bitten by an infected tick. The best way to prevent becoming infected by a tick-borne illness is through tick control and prevention. Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is dedicated to keeping our residents safe from the threat of tick-borne illness and disease. Knowledge is power and knowing the best ways to tick proof your property is the first line of defense in fighting Lyme Disease and the other tick-borne illnesses in our region.

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore has complied an easy checklist of ways to tick proof your yard for the coming season. These are called the 6C’s. By heeding the advice and putting these hints into action on the home front you can reduce the risk of getting sick from the bite of a tick.

Tall grasses and wooded areas make the perfect spot for ticks to converge. Spring grasses and saplings are reaching maturity during the late summer serving as the ideal spot for tick populations to thrive.

Mosquito Squad’s 6C’s to tick proofing your yard

1. Clear out– Reduce tick exposure by clearing out areas where lawn and tree debris gathers. Ticks thrive in moist, shady areas. Locate compost piles away from play areas or high traffic. Separate them with wood chips or gravel. Don’t position playground equipment, decks and patios near treed areas. Children are among the most affected by Lyme Disease.

2. Clean– Eliminate leaf litter and brush by cleaning it up around the house and lawn edges, mow tall grasses and keep the lawn short. Keep your environment free of overgrowth which includes the edges of the woods which can slowly creep into your backyard and outdoor living spaces.

Many plants, such as this fragrant Rosemary help deter deer,

3. Choose plants – Select plants and shrubs that are not attractive to deer and/or install physical barriers to keep deer out of your yard. Check with your local nursery to determine the best choices for your area. Choose plants with characteristics deer find unattractive. These selections may make the best candidates for use in the landscape border or in foundation plantings. Believe it or not some of these deer repelling plants are also quite beautiful!

4. Check hiding places – Know tick hiding places and check them frequently. Fences, along creek beds and ponds, brick walls, rocky areas and patio retaining walls are popular hiding places. Ticks love moist,shady areas with access to water. Ticks cannot survive in dry, arid conditions.

Protect your pets with Mosquito Squad of the North Shore.

5. Care for family pets – Family pets can suffer from tick-borne disease and also carry infected ticks into the home. Talk to your veterinarian about using tick collars, topical and sprays. As with all pest control products, be sure to follow directions carefully. Even with these safeguards it is important to inspect your pet thoroughly following a trip outside or after frequenting a tick-prone area.

6. Call in the Pros – Mosquito Squad of the North Shore utilizes both barrier sprays which kill adult ticks on the contact as well as “tick tubes”. Strategically placed “tick tubes” prompt field mice to incorporate tick-killing material in their bedding. Tick tube implementation is most beneficial when conducted in the early spring and autumn. This breaks the life cycle of the tick and effectively eliminates hundreds of tick nymphs found in each mouse nest. Tick tube implementation can reduce the chances of coming into contact with a potentially infected tick by up to 97% within your treated property.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Contact us to learn more about our tick-intensive treatment program and learn how Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is helping wage the war against tick-borne illness and disease in our region one backyard at a time!  Our program is affordable and effective and delivers peace of mind. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

The Lyme Disease cautionary sign we stumbled upon at Crane Beach.

My family and I were recently visiting Crane Beach here in Ipswich where we came upon this sign about Lyme Disease. We have prepared the text portion of the sign below so it is easier to read. This caution sign is just one example of the impact Lyme disease has on Coastal New England and the surrounding areas.

Lyme Disease Caution

Lyme Disease is a long-standing issue relevant to coastal New England, including Steep Hill Beach and Castle Hill. Lyme Disease is transmitted to humans by the bite of the black-legged deer tick; not all ticks carry the disease. Symptoms typically start one to three weeks after the bite of an infected tick and vary from mild to severe. Symptoms include an all expanding ring-like rash accompanied by fever and an illness resembling flu, and pain of joints. When diagnosed early, Lyme Disease responds to a variety of antibiotics. There is currently a vaccine available to help prevent the disease.

The trustees of Reservations, owners and managers of The Crane Estate, which includes Castle Hill and Steep Hill Beach, have taken numerous steps to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme Disease. These include mowing fields to reduce mouse and tick habitat and controlling the deer population. The Trustees of Reservations’ staff monitors tick, deer, and mice numbers at the Crane Estate throughout the year. Studies conducted by The Trustees have shown that these measures have significantly reduced the numbers of deer and mice on the property.

Due to our current management techniques, The Trustees of Reservations feel that the risk of Lyme Disease to visitors has been significantly reduced. Although Castle Hill function areas are virtually tick free, Castle Hill asks visitors to adhere to the following procedures:

• Confine activity to the designated walkways, paths, parking areas, and boardwalks. The beach itself is tick free and thus may be fully enjoyed.
• Refrain from “trekking” through the woods or bushes. Follow the posted instructions for access to the beach front.
• Check yourself and your family (especially children) for deer ticks after departing the area. Ticks may be carefully removed by using tweezers.
• Consult your family doctor if you suspect or know that you have been bitten by a deer tick.
• You have 24 hours to remove ticks before you are at risk of an infection.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

We cannot begin to emphasize the importance of safe tick practices when you and your family are on outings, like a day at the beach. On the home front you can protect yourself, your family and your pets by using an intensive tick control program, like the ones we have here at Mosquito Squad of the North Shore. We combine our safe and effective barrier spray program with the implementation of highly effective tick tubes to reduce the risk of coming into contact with a potentially infected deer tick in your backyard. Contact us today to learn more.

Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Tick Talk Tips

Dread Skeeter keeps your family and your pets tick free all season

The importance of keeping ticks at bay here in the North Shore area is critical. The result of being bitten by a potentially infectious tick can result in Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis just to name a few of the many illnesses ticks can cause. For this very reason Mosquito Squad has developed what we refer to as the 6C’s to tick-proofing your yard. By following these simple steps and precautions you can greatly reduce the risk of you or a loved one falling prey to an infected tick bite.

The 6C’s of tick-proofing your yard

1. Clear out. Reduce tick exposure by clearing out areas where lawn and tree debris gathers. Ticks thrive in moist, shady areas. Locate compost piles away from play areas or high traffic. Separate them with wood chips or gravel. Don’t position playground equipment, decks and patios near treed areas.

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore controls the tick by interrupting the life cycle through our tick-intensive program.

2. Clean. Eliminate leaf litter and brush by cleaning it up around the house and lawn edges, mow tall grasses and keep the lawn short.

3.  Choose plants.  Select plants and shrubs that are not attractive to deer and/or install physical barriers to keep deer out of your yard. Check with your local nursery to determine the best choices for your area.

4. Check hiding places: Know tick hiding places and check them frequently. Fences, brick walls and patio retaining walls are popular hiding places.

5. Care for family pets. Family pets can suffer from tick-borne disease and also carry infected ticks into the home. Talk to your veterinarian about using tick collars and sprays. As with all pest control products, be sure to follow directions carefully.

A common sight in our community and surrounding areas

6. Call in the Pros: Professionals utilize both barrier sprays that can kill adult ticks on the spot as well as “tick tubes”. Strategically placed “tick tubes” prompt field mice to incorporate tick-killing material in their bedding, effectively eliminating hundreds of tick nymphs found in each mouse nest.

Our goal here at Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is to not only help control the ticks on your individual property through our tick-intensive tick control program, but to also heighten awareness of the importance of tick control and prevention.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

To learn more about tick control or to sign up for our tick control this season, contact us today. Call (978) 887 – 1177 or email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

A professional associate sent this in to see if we could identify the tick. The penny is used for size comparison purposes. We advised her to send the tick into UMass for proper identification and testing.

I never dreamed that being in the business of bugs would place me in a position to respond to so many questions relating to insects. Our location alone puts us in a prime demographic to try to help homeowners who have found ticks on themselves, on their children and on their pets. Recently, we received an email from a professional associate in regards to a tick she found on her head while getting ready for work in the morning.

Deer ticks are carriers of Lyme Disease, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis

Thankfully, Massachusetts has a tick testing center through the UMass Amherst Center for Agriculture that enables you to send any tick in for testing. The main concern on the minds of a Mass. resident who finds a tick is the threat of acquiring Lyme Disease from the tick. Deer ticks are the sole carriers of Lyme Disease, and are also known to carry other tick-borne diseases like Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis. This year the UMass extension tick assessment center is testing ticks for all three of these dangerous illnesses. So they will identify the tick you submit as well as test the tick for Lyme Disease, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis. Find out how to submit your tick by visiting here http://extension.umass.edu/agriculture/index.php/services/tick-borne-disease-diagnostics

Proper removal of tick

In order to properly submit the tick for analysis you first want to make sure the tick has been removed properly. This is achieved through a quick upwards grasp, careful not to agitate the tick or leave the head attached if the tick has become imbedded. Then place the tick in a moistened paper towel in a sealed container or ziplock bag. Mosquito Squad has paired with the CDC for easy to follow instructions on how to safely and  properly remove a tick that is “latched on” to you, your loved one or your pet.

Ultimately, our goal here in Massachusetts is to avoid coming into contact with a tick in the first place. Our highly effective tick control programs are designed to keep your family, and your pets safe from ticks and tick-borne disease and illness. If you do find yourself in the position of being fearful of whether a tick you received by venturing into an untreated area may or may not be infectious, it is a blessing to have this tick testing available to all residents. The testing gives Mass. residents peace of mind in an uncertain circumstance such as having to remove a tick from yourself, your child or your pet.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore to keep the ticks, and the worry they bring, off of your property this season. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore keeps you up to date on Lyme disease findings and information.

Lyme disease is no laughing matter. In 2010 94% of the cases of the illness in the United States were reported in 12 states, one of which was Massachusetts. Lyme disease is spread through the bite of a tick infected with one of three bacteria belonging to the genus Borrelia. The main culprit for most cases of Lyme disease in the U.S. is the strain of Borrelia called Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto.

Cases of Lyme are growing more prevalent each year, and to date there is still no definitive test for the disease. Doctors continue to diagnose patients based upon their symptoms, history, and blood testing results. Many of us do not realize that there are  actually three stages of the disease. These are referred to as the early stage, the early disseminated stage and late Lyme disease (also known as chronic Lyme disease).  Knowing the symptoms is crucial to be able to get to your doctor quickly and begin immediate treatment. Letting the disease progress can drastically affect your health and way of life for months, and in some cases years.

The distinctive “bullseye” rash that is common within the early stages of Lyme disease

Symptoms of the early stages of Lyme disease

Early Lyme disease symptoms usually occur within days or weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. These include headache, fatigue, malaise, fever and chills, muscle and joint pain, swelling of the lymph nodes and in some cases a “bull’s eye” rash. This distinct rash is called Erythema migrans and can appear from 1 day to 1 month following onset of the disease. In some cases, the rash will not appear at all. Many of the symptoms of early Lyme disease can mimic the flu, but should not be ignored as such. In many cases the first clue is the timing of Lyme disease onset. Here in the U.S. seasonal flu generally peaks in January and February. Most of the time beginning in October each year and lasting until May in some cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2001 through 2010 the majority of Lyme disease cases reported in the U.S. peaked in the months of June and July. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms during a period when the flu has passed, this should raise a red flag to get straight to your doctor.

All sizes of ticks are capable of transmitting Lyme disease

Early disseminated or second stage Lyme disease

Early disseminated Lyme disease means that the disease is beginning to spread throughout the body and will start to affect certain body functions during this stage. This stage can occur weeks or months after the onset of the disease and can lead to problems such as paralysis of facial muscles, abnormal heart rhythms, numbness and/or pain in the extremities and Meningitis. Meningitis involves the swelling of the protective membrane covering the brain and the spinal cord and can cause fever, stiffness in the neck,and severe headaches.

A common sight in our community and surrounding areas

Late stage Lyme disease, or chronic Lyme disease

This stage of Lyme disease is hard to chart in terms of timing because this stage can occur weeks, months and even years after patients did not catch the progression of the disease in time to seek antibiotic treatment. In some cases even patients who have been diagnosed and treated for Lyme earlier in their illness can develop chronic Lyme disease because the treatment did not kill all of the bacteria that was responsible for the disease. Chronic Lyme disease patients can develop  into what is called Chronic Lyme Arthritis with periods of swelling and pain in one or more of the predominant large joints, especially in the knees. They can also develop nervous system problems, memory loss and suffer from chronic pain in their muscles and have difficulty sleeping. Many of those with Chronic Lyme are on long-term antibiotic treatment to help alleviate the discomfort later stages of this disease can cause.

No Ticks- No Disease

If you or a member of your family is displaying any of the symptoms of Lyme disease, at any stage, the most important thing to do is to contact your physician at the earliest sign of any symptoms or if you have been bitten by a tick and something just doesn’t feel right. Like the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, this could not be more true when it comes to diagnosing tick-borne illnesses early.With blood testing and keeping records of known tick bites, you and your physician will be better able to diagnose and treat the disease in the early stages.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

The best way to prevent tick-borne illness and disease like Lyme is tick control and prevention. Mosquito Squad of the North Shore combines tick tubes with our safe and highly effective barrier sprays to prevent you from coming into contact with a potentially infected tick on your property, thus reducing your chance of contracting a tick-borne disease. Contact us today to learn more. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore keeps you “in the know” when it comes to tick-borne diseases in the area.

There are, unfortunately, quite a few tick-borne diseases throughout our area here in Massachusetts. The most widely known is of course is Lyme disease. But there are other illnesses that can wreak just as much havoc on our health and our lives. Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, Tularemia and Ehrlichiosis among others have all been reported in Massachusetts.

According to the MA Health Department, these other notable tick-borne diseases are on the rise in Mass. Among these are Tularemia and Babesiosis, with reports of the disease increasing over 7-fold since the inception of reporting the disease in 1990. Ehrlichiosis reports have also increased 5-fold since 1997 when the MA Health Department began reporting on this disease as well.

Tall grasses and wooded areas make the perfect spot for ticks to converge.

Symptoms to look for that could indicate you have contracted a tick-borne illness are headaches, fever, fatigue, joint pain and neck stiffness, unexplained rash, and body and muscle aches. Many of the symptoms of having a tick-borne illness mimic those of the flu, but should not be overlooked. Diagnosing a tick-borne disease early is crucial for successful treatment and avoidance of disease progression. There is no “magic cure” to these tick-borne diseases; however, the illnesses can be treated with various antibiotics to much success in most circumstances.

Ticks are tiny, yet very dangerous.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention chart the incidences of various tick-borne diseases in the U.S. and the in 2008 reported 961 confirmed cases of Ehrlichiosis, and the numbers are rising annually,  In 2011 the CDC also concluded in a recent article released by the CDC, that cases of Babesiosis in our nearly neighboring Hudson Valley area had increased 20 fold and has been considered to be an endemic in parts of the Lower Hudson Valley for nearly two decades. This is too close for comfort for many Massachusetts residents to ignore and are taking heed to the real dangers of the plethora of tick-borne ailment occurrences in proximity to the Northern Shores of Massachusetts.

No Ticks- No Disease

Since there is no immunization to protect us from these tick-borne diseases, tick control and prevention  is your best defense in reducing your risk of coming into contact with a tick carrying one of these illnesses. Mosquito Squad has compiled an easy list of the best ways to avoid ticks on and around your home and yard. We call them the 6C’s of tick-proofing your yard.

1. Clear out debris. Debris often accumulates in moist shady areas where ticks thrive (they usually die in sunny dry areas).
2. Clean. Eliminate leaf litter, brush off sidewalks and mow tall grass to cut down on the places ticks can harbor.
3. Choose plants that aren’t attractive to deer. In areas where deer are present this is very important because deer will carry ticks right into your yard.
4. Check hiding places periodically. Ticks like to hide along the base of fences and brick walls.
5. Care for family pets. Ticks can easy hide in the fur of your pets. If your pets spend time in areas where ticks may be present, make sure you apply a topical tick medication.
6. Call the pros. Mosquito Squad’s tick control eliminates ticks before they can bit and danger your friends and family.

Anthony Pascetta owner of Mosquito Squad of the North Shore with his right hand man- Dread Skeeter

To learn more about ways to reduce your risk of meeting a tick face-to-face in your backyard this season, contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore. We can aid in keeping you and your family healthy and happy this Spring all the way to Fall.

Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore keeps you up to date on Lyme disease findings and information.

The enormity of fighting Lyme disease is immense. A recent article published by the Lyme Disease Association concluded that the CDC (Centers for disease control and prevention), indicated that Lyme disease reports have surpassed the number of HIV reported cases. The National Institutes of Health recently funded a study that showed the impact of Lyme disease on our health is at least equal to the disability caused to those who suffer from congestive heart failure. It is difficult to fathom that a tiny tick, in some cases no larger than a mustard seed and barely visible to the naked eye can wreak this much havoc on our health.

Lyme disease is getting a great deal of attention, with talk-show host Dr. Phil even delivering this powerful message. On a recent airing of the Dr. Phil Show  which focused on the effects of Chronic Lyme disease (CLD), one of Dr. Phil’s producers and some of his guests discussed the difficulties in not only the disease itself, but also some of the reasons preventing people from receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment. Some people with Lyme disease remain sick for months and even years and have difficulty getting proper diagnosis and treatment for the disease.

A common sight in our community and surrounding areas

In lieu of all the recent reports it is justifiable for Massachusetts residents to be concerned. Last year our state ranked fourth in the nation for reported Lyme disease cases, only coming in behind Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. We also rank 4th in per capita cases of the disease. Data shows a case in 61 cases per 100,000. It is so prevalent in our area we all know someone who has been affected by the disease. The Lyme disease association is also partnering with  S.L.A.M. (Sturbridge Lyme Awareness of Massachusetts), and has an awareness billboard in Massachusetts to help raise awareness.

All sizes of ticks are capable of transmitting Lyme disease

Reported incidents of Lyme disease in Massachusetts have increased dramatically over 15 years. In 1995, there were 189 reported cases in the state; in 2009, there were more than 4,000, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This information is cause for concern and sends a call to action for residents in the North Shore. Since there is no cure for Lyme disease, the best measures we can take to keep from contracting the disease is taking control of our property and tick-proofing our backyards.

Protect your family with tick control from Mosquito Squad of the North Shore

A good way to take control of your property is to keep high grasses cut and mowed and debris picked up as well as frequent checks of areas on your property that appeal to ticks such as rocks and fence lines. Another proactive way to keep your risk of coming into contact with a tick carrying Lyme disease is to have your property treated by a tick control professional . Mosquito Squad of the North Shore implements the use of tick tubes as well as a barrier spray for maximum protection. Tick tubes are placed around your property during the Spring and Fall to stop the progression of nymph ticks and can reduce your chances of coming into contact with a tick by up to 90%. During the months in-between the use of tick tubes, we recommend using barrier sprays to kill adult ticks.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is aiding in the prevention of Lyme disease in our area by combining the use of tick tubes and barrier sprays. We are currently offering the tick tube program at a reduced rate for our seasonal spray customers. This is helping raise awareness in our community of the importance of exercising tick control and prevention to stop the spread of Lyme disease. Contact us today to keep you and your family safe and healthy this season.

Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Ticks of all sizes, and at all stages of life can harbor disease

Tick season is upon us. These vectors of disgust, fear and illness have begun their annual siege. Residents in the Northshore are asking about the best protection from ticks and what is the best method to keep them away all season long? The answer is a two-tiered approach using the right tick control at the right time. This ensures that each life cycle of the tick is controlled within the treated area of property.

This diagram details the ticks life cycle.

Ticks have four stages of life which are egg, larva, nymph and adult. The way the tick feeds during each stage of its life cycle determines which tick control treatment works most effectively. The deer tick, for example, is highly prevalent in our region and is one of the ticks responsible for the transmission of Lyme disease. Deer ticks, once hatched, will hitch a ride via a field mouse back to the home of that mouse and will feed from the mouse and her young during the larval stage. Once the tick has fed from the mice, it then becomes a nymph. The tick  will then find a secondary host to feed from such as a dog, a cat, a human or another mammal that leads the tick nearer our homes. The nymph tick is the most dangerous and likely to transmit Lyme disease. The nymph tick usually appears in April and is still very tiny. Nymph ticks in many cases have fed on the mice from the previous summer while still in the larval stages and are hungry once weather conditions are conducive for them to attack. Unfortunately, the tiny tick appears at the same time many homeowners are outside in the garden or enjoying the outdoors in shorts. These ticks are hard to see because they are so small.

How the tick tube works

The third stage of the tick’s life cycle is the adult stage. These ticks appear in the fall. The adult tick is larger and easier to detect but can still spread disease and illness. Taking precautions to control the ticks this season from larva to adult will not only help control this season’s ticks it will also bring the numbers down for next year’s tick season as well.

Deer ticks at difference stages of the life cycle.

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore knows that timing and the use of combination tick control  works best to control the tick in all life cycles. Tick tubes work beautifully to kill the early staged ticks. The tick tube program we implement includes small tubes placed strategically on your property that have treated cotton tucked inside. The field mice take the tubes’ contents back to their nest and in doing so, kill the larval ticks that are residing there. The tubes are lethal to ticks but safe for mammals such as mice, dogs, and us. Plus the mice get a little help in return “feathering” their nests. Using tick tubes properly can reduce your risk of coming into contact with a tick on your property by up to 90% or more.

It's so easy to protect your yard with Mosquito Squad. You don't have to do anything at all. We protect your yard for the entire summer!

Barrier sprays kill ticks within your treated area during the later life cycles of nymph and adult. Staying on a regular regimen of spraying throughout the season will reduce your risk of coming into contact with a tick.

The best defense against ticks is using tick tubes in conjunction with barrier sprays. This is the best weapon to fight all ticks this season no matter how large, or how small. Contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore to learn more and schedule your tick control program today.

Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Our tick control programs enable your dog to enjoy being a dog. Loving the outdoors, by your side, safe from tick diseases.

Are you aware that your dog can become very sick from a tick? Many people assume that even though ticks are bothersome and revolting on your pet there is no cause for alarm, which couldn’t be farther from the truth. Here in the U.S. there are four tick diseases that can infect your pooch. These are Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and yes the dreaded Lyme Disease. Each of these illnesses can wreak havoc on our health and the health of our pet as well. Along with disease, ticks can actually cause dangerous disorders such as Anemia in your dog as well.

Dread Skeeter keeps your family and your pets tick free all season

Symptoms that your dog may have a tick-borne illness can include a loss of appetite, lethargy and depression,  pain, diarrhea, vomiting, edema in the extremities, hemorrhaging, neurological disorders such as seizures, and even death.

In the North Shore area, Lyme disease in particular is an area of concern for residents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention actually chart the progression of Lyme disease in dogs through parasite prevalence maps which are provided by the CAPC ( Companion Animal Parasite Council) . These innovative maps are used in a new study by the CDC to predict which regions are at a greater risk of outbreaks of the disease. By keeping up with the information on canine occurrences in an area the CDC can pinpoint which areas are most vulnerable and better warn the citizens of that area to protect themselves against ticks that may be potential carriers of the disease. According to this data, we’re at high risk here in Massachusetts. One out of every fifteen dogs tested for Lyme Disease tested positive.

Kids and dogs love the outdoors and getting dirty in the spring and summer. Keep them both safe from tick-borne diseases with Mosquito Squad of the North Shore.

Along with having your veterinarian advise you on the best tick protection for your dog, as well as exercising tick safety during tick season, it is even more important to treat the areas where ticks thrive. Even the best laid plans that include spot-on canine tick treatments can falter and put your dog at risk.

It is important to pet owners and non-pet owners alike to protect themselves from ticks and the potential diseases that they carry. One way to discourage ticks is to keep up with your surroundings and take control of your property by keeping overgrowth, debris and brush to a minimum. Tick tubes are the one of the best weapons against ticks and Lyme disease along with seasonal spray protection. Tick tubes appear to be non-threatening, but on second glance they contain an arsenal of knowledge and tick abatement in a small tube.

How the tick tube works

The tick itself uses field mice as transport from the woods to you or your dog. The tick actually hitches a ride on the field mouse with the sole priority to “go home” with the mouse. The young tick is transported to the mouse’s den where it can feed, thrive and grow until it inevitably attaches to a host like man’s best friend or our kids while they are playing in their own backyard.  Tick tubes contain treated cotton which the mice use to “feather” their nests. The treated cotton breaks the cycle by killing the tick, but aiding the mouse in making a toasty warm bed. The treated cotton is safe for the mice, but lethal to the tick. Recent studies indicate that using tick tubes on your property can reduce your risk of coming into contact with an infected tick up to 90%. So your family, and your dog is happy and healthy.

Anthony Pascetta owner of Mosquito Squad of the North Shore with his right hand man- Dread Skeeter

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore uses tick tubes in conjunction with our seasonal barrier spray to keep you tick free all season. Our perfect pair of tick abatement programs keeps tick out of sight and out of mind. Go ahead, let Spot run and enjoy the season. Let your dog be a dog, and all that entails, but keep his tail waggin’ safe with tick control that stops the cycle of disease at the source.

Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Dread Skeeter wants to help you prevent tick-borne disease and illnesses.

Lyme disease is serious business here in Massachusetts, and every resident should be aware of the dangers of the disease. Lyme disease is caused by being bitten by a small deer tick which carries the disease. People and animals, including pets, can become infected with Lyme disease. The same deer tick that is responsible for Lyme disease within our state is also responsible for the spread of other tick-borne illnesses such as Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis. It is also very possible for the deer tick to infect its host with more than one germ in a single bite.

Ticks of all sizes, and at all stages of life can harbor disease

This information is a lot to grasp that coming into contact with one tick can have the capability of creating so many problems. Even though it is possible to become infected with more than one illness from a single bite, it is rare. In our region Lyme disease is a huge concern because our geography contains everything the deer tick loves and thrives on. Ticks love our brushy, wooded thickets as well as our wood piles and fences. In essence our state has all the makings of the perfect tick habitat. Even though we have cold winters and ticks are most active during the warmer months of the year, ticks can emerge any time throughout the year to feed if the temperatures are above freezing. This means that the dangers of Lyme disease do not end when the kids go back to school, or when the autumn leaves start to fall. Massachusetts residents should take precautions whenever the weather is above freezing, whatever the season.

The distinctive "bullseye" rash that is common within the early stages of Lyme disease

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial disease caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi  which can affect the skin, joints, heart and nervous systems of its victims. In order to infect a host, the deer tick which carries the bacteria has to remain  attached on its host for at least 24 hours in order to spread the disease. Lyme disease displays symptoms in multiple phases of which the first, called the early stage, is characterized by a rash on the location of the bite area that resembles a bullseye or donut, which starts as a small red area that progresses outward. Early stage symptoms can also include fever, fatigue, stiff neck, muscle and joint soreness and headaches. In many cases the early stages of Lyme disease are mistaken for the flu, and are unreported or misdiagnosed. These early stage symptoms usually appear 3 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected tick, and as with any occurrence of finding a tick attached to your body, your should remove the tick properly and keep the tick in a container and date it should any problems arise or if the tick itself is needed to test for the presence of disease. The Later stages of Lyme disease can become evident weeks and even years after being infected. Later stage symptoms can prove problematic, and seeking treatment early on can decrease the chances of developing later phases of the disease such as Arthritis, Nervous system disorders, including Meningitis  and multiple heart problems.

Deer ticks contribute to many tick-borne disease such as Lyme disease, but deer ticks attach themselves to more hosts than just deer.

How can I prevent myself and my family from getting Lyme disease?

The most effective way for Massachusetts residents to avoid getting Lyme disease is to raise awareness of the factors that contribute to the disease and educating residents on how to avoid and prevent ticks. In order to avoid and prevent ticks, residents are urged to take control of their property to make it less hospitable for ticks and to exercise good tick sense on and around their property. Since ticks lurk and thrive in brushy wooded areas, and high grass, keeping your property trimmed, mowed and free of debris is the best starting point. Wood piles, fences and rock piles are favorites among ticks and these areas should be kept tidy and not become overgrown or unkempt. It is usually a wise choice to avoid areas where you know a tick infestation may be possible and contacting a licensed professional to have these areas treated to kill the ticks. Whenever dealing with an area that might be a possible tick “hot spot” make sure you wear appropriate clothing and shoes and frequently check yourself for ticks. Lighter colored clothing makes seeing a tick easier. Make sure to shower immediately upon returning home from any outside endeavor within potentially tick infested areas. Conduct regular inspections on your pets that venture outside, even if the pets are on topical tick preventatives for this does not guarantee against a tick hitching a ride to on your pooches fur only to feed on us later. Small children should also be checked thoroughly after outdoor play.

Tick tubes are seen here within the mouse's environment to aid in control and prevention.

Another viable option in preventing Lyme disease is to employ the use of tick tubes. Tick tubes are small tubes filled with cotton that has been treated with an insecticide safe for humans and animals, but kills ticks. The insecticide is derived from the Chrysanthemum flower and it shuts down the nervous system of the tick causing death. The tubes can be placed at random locations throughout your property where mice are likely to reside, such as the edges of wooded areas, and on the outskirts of tall grassy areas. The mice will use the treated cotton within the tick tubes to build their nests and in doing so will kill the deadly deer tick that feeds off the mice during the ticks early stage of life. By killing the tick before it evolves to feed off other mammals, including humans, you decrease the chances of being bitten within your property by up to 90%. Tick tubes are an innovative approach to the Lyme disease problem.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore wants you to be aware of the dangers of Lyme disease, the reality of the disease and educate Massachusetts residents on ways to avoid the disease. An ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure, especially where tick-borne diseases and illnesses are concerned. To learn more about way to prevent ticks in your “neck of the woods” contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore today.

Ticks of all sizes, and at all stages of life can harbor disease

You might think since summer is drawing to a close that the threat of ticks and the tick-borne illnesses they carry is no longer an issue. Think again. Ticks don’t just disappear with the end of summer vacation or your children’s return to school. They are out there, lurking and waiting for the next unlucky host to cross their path and become their next meal.

The life cycle of the tick makes it possible for ticks to spread disease through much of its life. Ticks undergo a series of changes through their life which entail the egg stage, the larval stage, the nymphal stage, and adulthood. Each stage of a tick’s life, with the exception of the egg stage, is focused on feeding. From the time a tick emerges from the egg until it perishes, its primary function is to feed off of our blood. This crimson obsession is only worsened by the tick’s ability to infect us with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis  and a number of various Encephalides as well as Meningitis.

Fieldmice and white footed mice harbor the tick which is responsible for Lyme disease.

Ticks like to reside in thickets, wooded areas, and tall grasses. These offer the tick the necessary moisture to keep the tick happy and hydrated. Deer ticks, which are known vectors of Lyme disease use creatures within their habitat to help facilitate the spread of Lyme disease. The white footed mouse, among other small rodents serve as hosts for the deer tick. While serving as a host to the deer tick, the mice inadvertently take the tick back into its nest where it continues to feed and calls the rodent’s lair home until it is passed to another mammal or human, thus ensuring further transmission of the disease through a tick infected with the disease. Fall is the time when these rodents are building their warm nests for the upcoming winter, and it is also the time when the interaction between the mouse and the deer tick will reach it’s fevered pitch.

Tick tubes are seen here within the mouse's environment to aid in control and prevention.

According to an article published by the American Lyme Disease Foundation, the population of ticks active within the larval stage of their life reaches a crescendo in the months of August and September. This data shows that fall is an important time of the year to be pro-active when it comes to the prevention and control of the tick. Adult ticks are also busy engorging themselves in anticipation of laying their eggs to continue the evolution of the species.

How the tick tube works

There are a number of ways to aid in the prevention of ticks during this crucial time of the year. Mosquito Squad of the North Shore uses tick tubes as a vital weapon in the war on ticks and Lyme disease. These tick tubes contain cotton which is treated with an insecticide that is designed to kill the ticks. The tick tubes are laid out at multiple locations across the landscape, near woods, tall grasses, etc. Then the mice remove the cotton within the tubes and use it as a comfy nesting material, which will also kill any ticks lurking on the mouse or residing in the mouse’s home. The insecticide is safe for humans, mice and other mammals but will kill the ticks on contact. Tick tubes are a revolutionary breakthrough that can decrease the chancing of being bitten within your treated property by a tick carrying Lyme disease by up to 90%. Mosquito Squad of the North Shore use of tick tubes offers a win/win situation for us and the mice.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

To learn more about our tick tube program contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Field mice and white footed mice harbor the tick which is responsible for Lyme disease.

It is not everyday that we get a peek into the world of nature. In the business of tick and mosquito control we are cautiously aware of the threat of Lyme disease that is spread by the deer tick via field mice, white footed mice and other rodents in our region. Really encountering a rodent such as this, face to face, for my wife, was really a treat. Just a few days ago my wife had an experience where she was able to discover the reality of just how close one of the main links in the chain of the spread of Lyme disease can be.

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore wants to keep you well-informed when it comes to mosquito and tick-borne diseases and illness

My wife was out working in the yard by pulling weeds to spruce up the landscaping. She found a clump of grass that was loose and just laying on the ground. She picked it up and found a tiny, pink “thing”, or creature, if you may, under the clump of grass. She thought that maybe it was a worm or grub of some kind, but realized it was too big to be either. Upon further inspection she realized that the “creature” had arms and legs. Very soon after her discovery, a brown field mouse came over obviously looking for her baby, which turned out to be the little thing she had found. She then proceeded to place the clump of grass carefully back atop the infant because she felt badly that she had disturbed “mama mouse’s” nest. The mother mouse quickly reacted by going to the nest and picking up the little pink baby mouse along with some other babies that were also within the nest. She then took the babies from the nest that she had accidentally disturbed, two at a time, to a new location under a bush a little farther away. My wife said that the whole time this was going on she sat in awe at this peek into nature that she was able to witness. She then said it dawned on her that these cute little field mice were the ones that contributed to spreading Lyme Disease and all of a sudden they didn’t seem so cute and cuddly to her anymore. She then employed a tick tube from our program in a strategic area near the bush. She felt really good about doing this because the cotton will help the mama mouse build her new nest and the tick chemical within that same cotton will kill the ticks on the mice without harming the mice themselves. The whole concept of tick tubes is a win/win situation from every angle.

Tick tubes break the chain of disease.

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore uses these tick tubes as part of their tick abatement service. These tick tubes are usually placed in areas where mice can easily access them. Tick tubes need not be buried, just placing them out is the only requirement. Now through September is the most opportune time to have us implement our tick tube program in your yard.

With Mosquito Squad of the North Shore ticks are out of sight, and out of mind

Along with being an eco-friendly way to kill ticks at the root of the problem without harming the mice and rodents that are the main hosts in spreading Lyme disease, tick tubes have proven to be highly effective by reducing the risk of being exposed to an infected tick by up to 97%.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

If you are interested in learning more about tick tubes or our other tick and mosquito control services, contact Mosquito Squad of the North Shore. Remember that a tick and mosquito free season is possible with the many programs we have available. Call us today for a free quote • (978) 887 – 1177 • email: northshore@mosquitosquad.com

More tick-borne illness reported in our "neck of the woods".

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the yard another tick-borne illness makes its presence known right in our backyards. According to The Boston Globe, more Rhode Island residents are testing positive for malaria’s  next of kin, Babesiosis.

Babesiosis, also known as Nantucket fever,  is a malaria-like parasitic disease that is primarily spread through the bite of a tick carrying the disease.The disease attacks the red blood cells of the body. In some circumstances Babesiosis has been know to be transmitted through blood transfusions as well. The disease is generally found in the northern Midwest areas of the US and New England states. Those infected with Babesiosis experience fever and anemia that in some patients is so minute it sometimes goes un-noticed. Babesiosis in its worst case scenario can resemble malaria-like symptoms like fevers in the 105 degree range as well  as severe anemia. This can lead to organ failure and respiratory distress. Treatment for Babesiosis is similar to that given to patients that have malaria.  So, even though this disease has not made as many headlines as the better known Lyme disease, it is still something to be very concerned about.

No Ticks- No Disease

According to the article in The Boston Globe 15 years ago, Rhode Island averaged less than one confirmed case of Babesiosis per year, and last year an astounding 76 people tested positive for the disease. To read The Boston Globes article from 7/26/11  in its entirety visit http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/articles/2011/07/26/rare_tick_disease_cases_on_rise_in_rhode_island/

Ticks of all sizes can harbor disease

Now that Massachusetts residents know they have to be on the alert for this debilitating disease, the next step is how do we prevent it? The answer to that million dollar question is easier than you might imagine. Education and prevention is the key to staying healthy and avoiding becoming a statistic of tick-borne illness and disease. Avoiding tick infested areas is key to prevention. The disease is so prevalent in the northern Midwest and New England states because the geography of the land in these areas lends itself to an abundance of lush vegetation and densely wooded areas. The very attributes that make our area so inviting to us is the same type of habitat ticks thrive in, in this case the beauty and lush vegetation of our lovely and desirable region may be our downfall.

With Mosquito Squad of the North Shore ticks are out of sight, and out of mind

When planning any outdoor activity make certain to dress appropriately by tucking pant legs into boots, and try to wear light-colored clothing so you can detect a tick on yourself sooner and remove it promptly before it has a chance to bite. Keeping your property trimmed, mowed and free of debris and brush is another deterrent for tick infestations. To ensure the utmost in protection have your property treated by a licensed professional as well.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore can help ensure the safety of you and your family with our barrier sprays and tick abatement programs. We instill these two safe and effective measures to keep the threat of ticks and tick-borne illness away from you and the ones you love. To learn more go to http://north-shore.mosquitosquad.com/  Contact us at (978) 887 – 1177 or email us at northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore wants to keep you well-informed when it comes to mosquito and tick-borne diseases and illness

When most of us hear about, or read about Mosquito and tick-borne illnesses we don’t think about it, we just assume it can never happen to us or a member of our families. Unfortunately these diseases are considered “out of sight and out of mind” to many. Until you or someone close to you experiences the aftermath of being bitten by an infected mosquito or tick, we don’t take it seriously, this is exactly why  so many cases of mosquito and tick-borne illness go unreported, or misdiagnosed.

In our busy lives of juggling work, family and taking care of the housework we don’t always listen to cues our bodies are giving us to let us know when something is wrong. Mosquito-borne and tick-borne illnesses are on the rise in our country and unfortunately statistics are inaccurate in reading the numbers of actual cases that are diagnosed as such. Many cases go undiagnosed because the illness simply doesn’t display symptoms. Other cases of Mosquito and tick-borne illness are unreported because the sufferer thinks they have a “bug” or the flu, and upon a trip to the doctor the illness is  misdiagnosed according to the individuals display of symptoms.

Mosquito Squad kills and prevents the disease carrying mosquito

Sources contend that up until 2003 a tracking system or reporting system did not exist for the Mosquito-borne West Nile Virus even though the illness exploded onto the scene in 1999 and has since spread like wildfire to 48 states so far. This reflects only one of many illnesses that are spread through mosquito and tick vectors. Imagine the multitude of infection that goes unreported due to the lack of accurate reporting agencies.

No Ticks- No Disease

The Lyme disease national registry was formed to improve the tracking and documentation of Lyme disease. The CDC (Centers for disease control and prevention) reports the nationwide statistics for Lyme disease on an annual basis, with numbers that range from 20,000-24,000. According to the CDC however this number only reflects 10% of actual cases of those infected with the disease for the simple fact that many doctors just do not recognize the disease.  In some cases tests will come back either inconclusive or negative for Lyme disease, even when the patient indeed has the illness. Many groups are pushing for better testing and more recognition of the disease within the health care community. Lyme disease is widely misunderstood and misdiagnosed.

Even Malaria is miscalculated and goes unreported. Malaria is quite rare within the US but some cases have been reported, especially among those who travel to Malaria stricken regions of the world, according to Malaria.com

Many deer carry ticks which carry Lyme Disease

This information is quite frustrating. A very good friend contracted Rocky Mountain spotted fever in 2006, and ignored the symptoms for three months. She experienced a myriad of symptoms but blamed them on something else. It was not until the illness verged on acute that she called the doctor. Don’t let this happen to you or a loved one. Pay close attention to what your body is saying and contact your doctor immediately.

Of course, arming yourself with knowledge and taking precautions to guard against coming into contact with a mosquito or tick it priority number one in the fight against mosquito and tick-borne illness. Here are a few helpful hints to keep these vectors of disease at bay…

1) Avoidance of heavily wooded areas, and areas where deer populations are high. Deer ticks are the main vectors of Lyme disease.

2) If you do plan an outdoor endeavor, wear proper clothing and check yourself as soon as possible. Wearing light-colored clothing will make it easier to detect a tick, and will also help ensure you remove it before it has bitten you.

3) Shower immediately upon returning home after being in woods, thickets, and areas with high grass.

4) Keep your property cut and free of debris and thick vegetation. Both ticks and mosquitoes love high grass and thick vegetation.

5) Inspect your yard and around your home regularly to make sure there is not areas of standing water. This included any vessel where moisture can accrue, including children’s toys, pots, planters and even the top of a soda can.

6) Keep your gutters clean and free of debris to deter mosquitoes from laying eggs in them.

7) Make sure to regularly check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks during the summer months.

8) Have your property treated by a licensed professional to kill and prevent mosquitoes and ticks on your property.

9) Most importantly, never ignore your body. Fever, headaches, chills, nausea, neck stiffness, lethargy and unexplained rash are symptoms of many mosquito and tick borne illnesses, just to name a few. Always contact your physician at the first sign that something may be wrong.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore agrees with the old saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. We can kill and prevent mosquitoes and ticks on your property the entire season. Our safe and effective barrier sprays  along with our tick abatement can give you peace of mind all season. Contact us today to learn more. (978) 887 – 1177 northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Dread Skeeter keeps your family and your pets tick free all season

When we think in terms of pets, certainly the dog is indeed not just man’s best friend but likely the best friend to every member of your family. Just like people, dogs are susceptible to becoming infected with tick-borne diseases. Considering that your furry friend spends more time outdoors in most cases than you do, he is even more at risk.

There are four major tick-borne diseases that affect dogs in the United States. These are Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease. Any one of these diseases can be fatal in canines and should be  diagnosed in a timely manner and treated aggressively.

With the risk of infection and possibly death, one would argue the question “should I just keep my dog indoors all summer until tick season has passed?” Mosquito Squad of the North Shore is here to educate dog owners on the most important facts about preventing these diseases and to know the warning signs if your dog is infected so you may act quickly.

With Mosquito Squad of the North Shore your dogs don't have to stay indoors all summer.

The most important thing to remember is your dog is going to pick up an infected tick or be bitten by an infected tick most likely, on your property. Wherever your canine frequents as a restroom, or for exercise and play, should be kept cut and trimmed and not allowed to become overgrown.  Making certain that your canine is on either oral or spot-on tick preventative is crucial. You and your veterinarian can discuss the preventative that would work best for your circumstances. Keeping your property treated for tick prevention by contacting a licensed professional to treat your property is also important in the prevention of tick-borne illness in both you, and your dog. Make sure to avoid un-treated and overgrown, tick-prone areas with your pet. Checking your pet on a daily basis throughout tick-season is also key in prevention of disease. Depending on the type of tick and the disease it carries, the attachment and feeding time may vary from several hours to several days in order to transmit the disease to your pet. So prompt removal is a must.

Proper removal of tick

Proper removal of an attached tick is also important. Traumatizing a tick during removal can cause the tick to expel its gut contents which greatly increases the risk of passing any bacteria or organism which causes disease. The proper way to remove an attached tick is to use tweezers and firmly grad the body of the tick and pull it straight out. Do not ever twist or jerk the tick . Sometimes the head can be difficult to remove due to the barb on the ticks mouth. If the mouth parts seems to still be attached following the removal, use an alcohol sterilized needle to remove the head. NEVER use alcohol, nail polish, petroleum jelly or hot matches to remove a tick. Make sure you always wear gloves when removing a tick since many of the tick borne diseases in dogs are also transmittable to people.

No Ticks- No Disease

Once the tick has been removed use a vial or empty pill bottle filled with rubbing alcohol to store the tick for possible future testing and identification. Date the bottle and also mark the date on your calendar, just as you would with a person. This dating method is efficient if you or your dog start to show symptoms of illness or disease.

With Mosquito squad of the North Shore treating their yard-these pooches can go out to play!

Many times it is hard to distinguish between symptoms of a tick-borne disease or just lethargy in your dog. Many symptoms are overlooked and chalked up to the heat, eating too much grass, etc. It is important to note any changes in your dogs behavior during tick season. Symptoms to look for in Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease are lack of appetite, weight loss, and continued lethargy.

Here are the top five things you need to know to keep your dog happy and safe this summer

• Keep property clean and tidy and un-inviting to ticks.
• Keep your canine on tick preventative available through your vet.
• Have your property treated by a licensed professional to prevent ticks.
• Check your dog for ticks after any venture outdoors.
• Remove ticks properly and contact your veterinarian at the first sign of trouble.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

This simple checklist will keep you and your best friend safe this season. Call us to find out about how we can treat your property to kill and prevent ticks the entire season

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore  can ensure you and your canine companion don’t have to stay in all season and miss out on all the summer fun!(978) 887 – 1177 or email us at northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Dread Skeeter for Mosquito Squad of the North Shore- learn more about preventing and killing ticks

Last week I attended an event called In your back yard and in your community in Essex, MA. They put on the seminar to educate about ticks and tick-borne illnesses – most notably Lyme Disease. Most likely everyone knows someone who is suffering with Lyme Disease or who has suffered with a tick-borne illness at one time or another. It’s scary. Ticks are everywhere and are carried around by the ever-increasing deer population and also by other pets and pests. For example, mice can carry ticks to places throughout your yard.

Here is a quick summary of what you need to know.

It’s good to know that ticks don’t jump. In order to get a tick, you have to come in contact with them whether they’re traveling by a host animal or pet, sitting on a plant or grass that you brush up against or sitting on a fence or wood pile that you sit on or pick something up from.

These deer look like they are stalking this poor horse. Deer are carriers of ticks. Ticks carry many diseases.

Education is key here. Knowing where ticks hang out is the first step. The next step is trying to stay away from those areas. It sounds sort of silly to say that we have to stay away from grass to stay away from ticks but other areas like tall grasses and wood piles are easier to stay away from. I will tell you a bit more about protecting your grass down below.

But for many of us, staying away from plants and tall grasses and trees is just not going to work. Most of us either love to garden or love to walk and spend time outside, to hike or even to hunt. So here’s the next step in protection against ticks.

Mosquito Squad spraying your yard

The next step in tick protection and tick-borne disease prevention is having a good method of checking. The best thing to do is a regular tick check when you are spending time outside. You should do this on yourself as well as on your children. In the meeting, the town suggested you check yourself once every day. Here is where to look. “Favorite places ticks like to go on your body include areas between the toes, back of the knees, groin, armpits, and neck, along the hairline and behind the ears.”

It’s also important to think about wearing light-colored clothing. This allows you to easily see when you have brushed up against a tick that has moved to you as its next host. And, it’s important to know that ticks take a couple hours to get to the spot on your body where they will have their blood meal. So, a quick shower after spending the day outdoors or a tick check immediately after a long time in the heavy tick breeding grounds is also a good idea.

It's so easy to protect your yard with Mosquito Squad. You don't have to do anything at all. We protect your yard for the entire summer!

By now you’re probably either thinking about cutting your summer short or just throwing your arms up in the air. The summer is beautiful in Essex and all around the Northshore. We’re not going to throw our arms up in the air about spending lots and lots of time outside throughout the spring and summer.

The town provided some great easy tips to add a lot of tick protection to your yard and the areas where you will be hanging out. This is directly from their brochure.

• Keep grass cut short
• Remove leaf litter and brush from around your home
• Prune low lying bushes
• Keep woodpiles and bird feeders off the ground and away from your home
• Keep the plants around stone walls cut short
• Use a three-foot wide wood chip, mulch or gravel barrier where your lawn meets the woods.
• Ask your local nursery about plants to use in your yard that do not attract deer
• Use deer fencing for yards 15 acres or more

There is a way that you can protect your grass. You can protect your grass and the plants around your yard using a barrier spray. A barrier spray is a spray that is applied to your yard, plants and grass every 3 weeks. It not only kills ticks and mosquitoes on contact but there is a time-released residual encapsulation that adheres to plants to continue to kill ticks and mosquitoes that feed and harbor on and in these areas. This is what we do. We provide a regular barrier spray (every 3 weeks) to your yard to keep mosquitoes and ticks away. Our spray will kill 85 – 95% of the ticks and mosquitoes in your yard. How would you like to reduce your chance of getting Lyme Disease by 85 – 95%?

Many deer carry ticks which carry Lyme Disease

Mosquito Squad of the North Shore constantly tracks any new insight that may help us to prevent ticks and the diseases they harbor. Our goal is to keep our neighbors safe and aware at the same time.

Anthony Pascetta Mosquito Squad North Shore

If you are interested in learning about ways Mosquito Squad of the North Shore can keep your property and outdoor living areas safe all summer long from ticks and mosquitoes, contact us today (978) 887 – 1177 or email us @northshore@mosquitosquad.com

Many physicians do not believe that chronic Lyme disease even exists. This disbelief is also carried through to the 8,000 members of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. This disease is very real and there are very real numbers of people struggling to cope with the disease on a daily basis. This disease affects the quality of life for the sufferer and the sufferer’s families. Misunderstood by so many in the health care profession has left these patients with very little recourse or relief.

The International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society is fighting for the voices of those that suffer from Lyme disease to be heard. This organization is made up of physicians and other health care advocates who argue that chronic Lyme disease is not only a diagnosable condition but one which is treatable with long-term antibiotics.

In the future we hope to see an end to the demoralizing experience many patients with Lyme disease have to suffer. One way we can arm ourselves is with knowledge. With knowledge comes power and people need to be empowered by learning more about Lyme disease. Here at Mosquito Squad of North Shore we want to educate the community about the dangers of tick borne illness. One way to avoid these illness’ is to discourage the tick bite itself from occurring and this comes from proper education and prevention. We want everyone to become “tick knowledgeable” and “Lyme literate”. Give us a call to find out ways to “tick-proof” your lawn and garden today (978) 887 – 1177 .