Brown dog ticks are the most frequently reported. They are distinguished from other species of ticks by their reddish-brown color. Their most common prey are dogs, yet they’ve grown a liking to humans over the years. Making them more resilient than most other ticks, brown dog ticks can actually go through their entire life cycle indoors and survive up to two years without a blood meal.
Tick Pest Control

Tick Activity in Arizona
- Brown dog tick
- Rocky Mountain wood tick
- Western black-legged tick
Are Ticks Harmful?
Not only do ticks suck blood from their host, but they can also transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tick-borne relapsing fever, or Lyme disease.
If bitten by a tick, the sooner you remove it, the better. Follow CDC guidelines for proper removal. Use tweezers and try to grab the tick as close to your skin as possible, then pull straight up. To avoid releasing fluids into the wound, try not to squeeze the tick’s body when pulling it out.
Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If mouthparts do break off and remain in the skin, tweezers are, again, a good tool for removal. If, however, you are unable to remove these mouthparts easily, leave the wound alone, and let it heal.
After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, and soap, and water.
How is Your Dog Picking Up Ticks?
Ticks reside in areas where there’s a lot of debris. They can be found underneath piles of leaves, long vegetation, and woodpiles. If your dog likes to play in areas with a large amount of debris, it can bring back ticks.
Dog parks are a big factor when it comes to tick bites in dogs. Visiting a dog park puts your pet at high risk of picking up ticks from other dogs. That’s why veterinarians recommend treating your dog for ticks before and after dog park visits.
Ways to Protect Your Dog From Ticks
- Keep your pets away from tall grass and areas with heavy debris.
- Avoid dog parks and other areas where there are known tick infestations.
- Utilize veterinarian-recommended tick treatment products for your pet.
- Regularly check your dog for ticks.

We Can Help You!
Of course, Insectek can be part of the solution, too. We’re your source for effective and environmentally friendly pest control. And as the top-rated pest control company in the Phoenix area, we offer solutions tailored to fit your needs and keep your home free of all kinds of pests, including ticks. Contact us for more information.
Keep your Home Safe
Wherever you are in the Metropolitan Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert areas, you should not be living in fear of roaches coming in to your home. Call the experts at Insectek today, or complete an instant evaluation for free.