Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of animals and people. They come in various colors but are typically brown or black. They have eight legs and a hard, shell-like body. Ticks are most commonly found in tall grass and bushes, but can also be found in wooded areas and around homes.
Ticks are found throughout the United States and Canada. They are carried by animals such as deer, raccoons, and coyotes, and can attach themselves to people or pets who wander into their territory.
The best way to prevent tick infestations is to avoid tall grass and bushes, especially in areas where there is a high concentration of deer. If you must go into an area that is known to have ticks, wear long sleeves and pants and use a tick repellent. Check yourself and your pets for ticks after leaving an area known to have them, and remove any that are found. To remove ticks, use a thin flat surface like a credit card to gently scrape the tick off, as pulling them off with tweezers can cause parts of the tick to be left behind in the skin.