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Controlling Ticks

Source: NDSU Extension Service Entomologist

Of the several kinds of ticks in North Dakota, the one that is most bothersome to people and their pets is the American dog tick, also called the wood tick. American dog ticks are most active during spring and early summer, when they can attach themselves to the skin of people or their pets.

Wood ticks are found in large numbers in tall, grassy fields or in areas with dense underbrush. They feed on the blood of rodents and small animals, remaining on the animal for several days before dropping off and laying their eggs.

If you are in the tick-infested area, carefully examine your clothing and body for ticks. Pets should also be checked daily for ticks during the season. Although ticks can "hitchhike" into your home, they cannot successfully reproduce indoors.

To remove a tick that is imbedded in skin, grasp it very close to the skin with tissue paper held in your fingers. Then pull it straight out. The mouth parts are short and should come completely out. Another method is to smother the tick with petroleum jelly. Within 10 to 20 minutes, it should begin to back itself out and you can remove it.

Never try to remove a tick by crushing it in your fingers. The mouth parts may be left in the skin and an infection can occur. Do not use a hot match or cigarette to remove ticks as skin can burn easily.

When you know you will be walking through a tick-infested area, use an insect repellent. Choose a repellent with a high percentage of the active ingredient Deet or use Permanone tick repellent. Apply the repellent on socks, trouser legs and cuffs, shirt sleeves, and other parts of your clothing / that may brush the tall vegetation where ticks concentrate. Do not apply to skin.

Pets should also be protected against ticks. Check with your veterinarian for a recommended product.

If you have further questions, please contact your county office of the NDSU Extension Service.

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