Ticks Hiding in Wall Cracks and Skirting

If ticks keep returning after you treat your dog, they may be living in the walls.

The short answer

Brown dog ticks often climb walls and hide in cracks, crevices, skirting and behind furniture, especially near where the dog rests. Look for small brown ticks, tick eggs and groups on walls near kennels and beds. Seal cracks, clean thoroughly and arrange professional crack and crevice treatment alongside vet-advised tick control for your pet. Without the home treatment, ticks keep returning.

Signs

• Ticks crawling on walls or ceilings near the dog's resting area.
• Small brown clusters in cracks and corners.
• Ticks reappearing after the dog is treated.

What to do

1. Vacuum and clean skirting and corners.
2. Seal cracks and gaps once treatment is done.
3. Treat the dog on a vet's advice.
4. Arrange professional crack and crevice treatment.
5. Re-check and repeat as advised.

Prevention

• Keep the dog's area clean.
• Repair wall damage.
• Check the kennel and bedding regularly.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Can ticks climb walls?

Yes, brown dog ticks do.

Will sprays reach cracks?

Professional methods do.

Should I move the dog?

Treat the dog and home together.

How long does it take?

Often several weeks.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on tick and flea control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full tick and flea control guide for Bangalore.