Spring in New York brings longer days, fresh air, and the perfect excuse to explore the city’s green spaces, hike or take your dog for a walk. From strolling through Central Park to hitting the scenic trails of the Hudson River Greenway, urban hikes offer a refreshing escape. But as temperatures rise, so does the presence of unwelcome companions: pests.
A few itchy bites might seem like a minor inconvenience, but pests are more than just a nuisance. Ticks, often found in grassy areas and wooded sections of city parks, can carry bacteria that cause serious infections. Mosquitoes thrive in humid spots and near standing water, leaving behind itchy bites and potential health risks. Even fleas can be an issue in dog parks, making your pet uncomfortable long after playtime ends.
At DRA, we know how important it is to enjoy New York’s outdoor spaces without the worry of pests. Whether you’re hitting the trails or just taking your dog for a spin at the park, you don’t want to bring home unwanted guests. Read our guide below for the best ways to stay protected on your next adventure.
Identify Common Pests on City Hikes and at Dog Parks
Before heading outdoors in New York, it’s essential to know which pests you may encounter. While some are just annoying, others can pose potential health risks for both you and your pets. Here are the most common pests in city parks, hiking trails, and dog parks:
- Ticks: Found in wooded areas, tall grass, and even landscaped city parks, ticks can latch onto clothing, skin, and pet fur. Some species may carry Lyme disease and other infections.
- Mosquitoes: Thriving near ponds, fountains, and shaded areas with standing water, mosquitoes leave behind itchy bites and can transmit diseases. They are especially active in humid conditions.
- Biting Flies: Horseflies and deer flies can be found near marshy areas and open fields. Their bites are painful and irritating.
- Fleas: Often brought into dog parks by other animals, fleas can jump onto pets and hitch a ride home, leading to long-term infestations.
- Stinging Insects: Wasps, hornets, and bees nest in trees and shrubs around parks. Disturbing them can lead to painful stings or allergic reactions.
If you’re exploring the city with your dog, be extra cautious. Ticks, fleas, and biting insects can easily hide in their fur and cause discomfort or illness. Regular checks and preventative measures can help keep both you and your pet safe while enjoying outdoor spaces.
How to Protect Yourself from Pests on City Hikes and at Dog Parks
Encountering insects while exploring outdoors is inevitable, but taking the right precautions can significantly reduce bites and the risks associated with them. Here are some of the most effective ways to keep pests away while enjoying the outdoors.
- Use Insect Repellent
Applying insect repellent is one of the most effective ways to prevent bites. Look for EPA-approved repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these ingredients are proven to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. Be sure to apply repellent to all exposed skin and reapply as directed, especially if you are sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing
Choosing the right clothing can serve as a physical barrier against pests. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and high socks help shield your skin from bites. Opt for light-colored clothing, as it makes it easier to spot ticks. If walking in tick-prone areas, tucking your pants into your socks can help prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.
- Avoid Peak Pest Hours
Mosquitoes and other insects are most active at dawn and dusk, particularly in humid areas. If possible, plan your walks, jogs, or dog park visits for midday or early afternoon, when pest activity is lower.
- Avoid Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which can be found in puddles, fountains, and marshy areas of parks. If you’re walking near a pond or stream, keep moving rather than lingering near water sources where mosquitoes tend to gather.
- Check for Ticks After Your Walk
Ticks often go unnoticed, so performing a thorough tick check is crucial:
- Focus on areas where ticks commonly attach, such as behind the knees, along the waistband, under the arms, and around the scalp.
- If hiking with a dog, inspect their fur and use a tick-prevention treatment recommended by your veterinarian.
By following these precautions, you can safely explore New York’s parks and trails without worrying about pests ruining your outdoor adventures.
Post-Walk Pest Check
After your walk, take a few minutes to check for pests before heading home. Use this quick DRA pest-check guide:
✔ ️ Check Your Clothes & Gear – Shake out your clothes, hat, and backpack. Change into clean clothes if possible.
✔ Do a Full-Body Tick Check – Look at your legs, waistline, underarms, neck, and scalp. Use a mirror for hard-to-see spots.
✔ Shower ASAP – Rinse off any insects and wash potential bites with soap and water.
✔ Inspect Your Pets – Run your hands through their fur, checking ears and paws for ticks or fleas.
✔ Wash & Dry Clothes on High Heat – A hot dryer for 10 minutes kills hidden ticks.
✔ Treat Bites – Clean and monitor any bites. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and watch for symptoms.
What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten or Stung
Most bites and stings resolve on their own, but seek medical attention if you experience:
- A spreading rash or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite.
- Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus.
- Difficulty breathing or severe swelling after an insect sting.
Prompt treatment ensures that a minor bite doesn’t turn into a serious health concern.
Don’t Let Pests Follow You Home
A day spent enjoying the outdoors shouldn’t turn into a pest problem indoors. If you’ve encountered unwanted hitchhikers in the park or at walks, whether it’s ticks, mosquitoes, or other pests, DRA is here to help.
Schedule your free assessment today and keep your home pest-free!