Will Bed Bugs Only Bite People?
In recent years, bed bugs have made a comeback and have become more prevalent in many households worldwide. These tiny, blood-sucking pests can cause serious issues and have been the worst nightmare of anyone who has ever encountered them. With that said, there have been a lot of myths and misconceptions about bed bugs, one of them being that they only bite people. So, let’s dive right in and debunk the truth about bed bugs and their feeding habits.
What is a Bed Bug?
Bed bugs are small, flat, oval-shaped insects that belong to the Cimicidae family. These pests feed exclusively on blood and have been a problem for humans for thousands of years. They are typically reddish-brown and approximately the size of an apple seed. They can be easily identified by their distinct odor and the bites they leave on human skin.
Bed Bug Behaviour
Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that hide in crevices and cracks, such as in the mattress seams, headboard, and frame, during the day. They come out of hiding in the nighttime to feed on their hosts for about 5 to 10 minutes until they have engorged themselves with blood. This behavior makes it difficult for people to spot them and easier for them to infest an environment undetected.
Bed Bug Life Span
Bed bugs, like any other insect, have a life cycle that includes multiple stages. They begin their life as an egg, which hatches into a nymph. Nymphs will pass through five stages of growth before reaching adulthood, molting their skin at each stage. The entire process from egg to adult takes about 5 to 6 weeks under optimal conditions. Adult bed bugs can live anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending largely on conditions and access to a blood meal. It’s important to note that bed bugs can survive for several months without feeding, which contributes to their resilience and persistence in infestations.
What do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?
Bed bug bites are usually small, red, and itchy welts that appear after the pests feed on human blood. These bites often occur in a line or a cluster, generally on exposed areas of the body while sleeping, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. It’s important to note that reactions to bed bug bites can vary from person to person.
Some individuals may develop an allergic reaction and experience intense itching, while others may have no reaction at all. The bites can take a few days to appear and may persist for several days or even weeks. Misdiagnosis is common as bed bug bites can easily be mistaken for bites from other pests like mosquitoes or fleas, or skin conditions like dermatitis. Always seek professional help if you’re unsure whether your bites are from bed bugs.
Canine Infestation: Bed Bug Bites on Dogs
While bed bugs typically prefer human hosts, they are not exclusive to them. In the absence of a human host, or in particularly severe infestations, you can find bed bugs on dogs. These pests are not picky when it comes to their blood meals and will readily feed on any warm-blooded animal they can reach. However, the presence of bed bugs on dogs does not necessarily mean that your pet is the primary source of the infestation.
Bed Bugs Move
Bed bugs do not live on their hosts like fleas or ticks; instead, they only crawl onto the host when they need to feed. Therefore, it’s more likely that if your dog has bed bugs, they’ve been brought into your home from somewhere else. The bed bug bites on dogs are usually located on the belly or limbs, areas with minimal fur. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has been bitten by bed bugs. They can provide appropriate treatment to alleviate any itching or discomfort experienced by your pet.
The Best Way to Eliminate Bed Bugs
The best way to eliminate bed bugs is by thorough cleaning, sanitation, and removal of clutter in the infested area. Bedding, linens, and clothing should be washed and dried at high temperatures. Vacuuming the area thoroughly and using encasement covers on mattresses can also help to eliminate bed bugs. However, the most effective way to treat a bed bug infestation is through professional pest control services.
Heat Treatment is the Key
One of the most effective ways to get rid of bed bugs is through heat treatment. It involves raising the temperature of the infected area to a level that kills the bed bugs and their eggs. This method is known as heat remediation, and it is an eco-friendly and chemical-free way of getting rid of bed bugs.
Always Contact a Professional
While some home remedies may temporarily reduce the number of bed bugs, they are never a permanent solution. The best way to eliminate bed bugs is by contacting a professional pest control company. They have the expertise, training, and equipment necessary to handle bed bugs and eradicate them from your home.
Challenging to Remove
Bed bugs not only bite people but also their pets. They are nocturnal pests that are challenging to detect and remove. Although bed bugs are annoying and can cause severe itching, they are not dangerous to human health. The best way to eliminate them is through professional pest control services. So, if you believe you have a bed bug infestation, do not hesitate to contact a pest control expert immediately!
Bed Bug Barbeque to the Rescue!
Don’t let bed bugs ruin your peace of mind. At Bed Bug Barbeque, we specialize in professional, thorough, and efficient bed bug extermination. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, we are committed to restoring your home’s comfort and safety. If you suspect you have a bed bug infestation, don’t wait. Contact us today at (216) 221-1227 and let our team of experts help you get back to bug-free living. Bed Bug Barbeque: Your solution to bed bug infestations.
