With more than 25 years of experience, Vet’s Best continues to provide high-quality tick control products and the Natural Flea and Tick Yard and Kennel Spray is no exception. The spray not only kills ticks but also fleas and flea eggs. Also, it acts as an effective mosquito repellent.

The spray provides up to four weeks of protection from ticks, mosquitoes, gnats, and fleas. It can be applied to roses, trees, flowers, and lawns without causing damage to your yard or pets. BioSpot spray covers up to 5000 square feet which is a pretty decent area size and lasts up to four weeks.

The concentration and active ingredient in a good tick spray contribute to its efficiency. First, you need to check if the spray is registered by the Environment Protection Agency. Also, you want a tick yard spray that kills on contact like repellents that contain permethrin that acts a repellent and a killer. Note that tick sprays designed for indoor use may not be effective for the outdoors.

It is because they break down fast when they come into contact with water (in the form of rain) and high humidity. Methoprene is an example of a tick spray that works well in shaded areas and breaks down when exposed to the sun. The most effective chemical sprays to control tick infestation are those that contain pyrethrin as well as insect growth inhibitors like Fenoxycarb and pyriproxyfen.

Pyrethrin is extracted from flower heads of certain types of Old World chrysanthemums. The pesticidal features of these flowers have been used for centuries to kill ticks and fleas as it releases a toxic substance that weakens the pest’s nervous system. The insect growth inhibitors, on the other hand, attack the developing ticks and fleas by preventing them from molting into adults resulting in death.

Ticks and fleas barely invade an entire yard or lawn. Usually, the insects avoid lodging in areas exposed to the sun and high traffic. As such, homeowners should apply the spray in particular problem areas that ticks inhabit like:

Damp Areas

Such areas are particularly prone to a large population of ticks especially if they lack direct sunlight and are populated with shrubs, trees, and long grass. Other hide-outs include sheds along the foundation of buildings and homes and areas where your pets stay (e.g. kennels, feeding areas, and doghouses).

The recent Zika epidemic and the general increase in tick and mosquito-borne diseases have seen many insect-control businesses emerge. In fact, the proliferation of these companies has led to several consumer affairs bureaus suspending firms operating without experience, proper licensing and equipment. So, if you are looking to hire a professional to spray ticks in your yard, here’s what you should look for:

Licensing and Insurance

Licensing requirements vary from one state to another. A license shows that the company has met the minimum expectations of the state. You should also ask about the level of training for the technicians and whether they follow recognized procedures in the application of the tick spray and the handling of equipment. The pest control company should also have insurance to ensure the protection of its customers.

A List of References

The company should be willing to guarantee within reason that its pest control procedure is effective. Also, it should indicate the amount charged for additional treatment is required. Providing a list of reference allows you to call and verify the information availed by the company regarding the quality of work and the satisfaction of its customers.

Procedures of the Treatment Program

You need to ask about the kind of chemicals applied to exterminate the ticks and any hazards the chemicals pose. Also, verify if you need to be away from your home during the extermination process, precautions that should be taken and how long it will take to see the results.

A Detailed Estimate of the Program

The company should provide a written estimate of the treatment program showing all the necessary procedures. Some companies will do this for free while others charge a fee, which is deducted from the price of the extermination program if you engage that company. The estimate provided should show the method of application, pricing details, materials, and the equipment used. It will also include the specific areas to be treated in this case the yard and additional services you may need.

Provision of Follow-up Treatment

The extermination of tick and other kinds of pests may require follow-up treatment to ensure effectiveness. You should ask if the company provide the service and if the fee is part of the initial cost estimated.

Preparation for the Extermination Process

You may need to prepare your yard, lawn, or compound for the treatment before the pest control company arrives. The company representative should present a checklist showing the specific tasks you should perform. It prevents additional charges that may apply, prevent delays, and other inconveniences.