You probably won’t be bothered by ticks on Badger Mountain or on desert hikes like Wallula or White Bluffs. The main areas of concern are Bateman Island, Chamna, Zintel Canyon and other areas with trees and brush. To prevent ticks on yourself, wear long-sleeved shirts with high collars, pants tucked into your boots or socks and a brimmed hat. Using a DEET containing bug repellent can be effective. Light colored clothing is helpful so you can spot ticks before they attach. Your dog is more difficult to protect and inspect once you’re done hiking. You may want to stick to more desert trails with Rover until the ticks are less prevalent. It is important to inspect for ticks when done hiking. Check hairlines, hair, around ears, neckline and any exposed skin. If you find a tick that is roaming loose, just flick it off.
Burrowed tick engorged on blood. Remove ONLY with fine-tipped tweezers.
If you find a tick with it’s head burrowed in your skin, you should remove it with tweezers (don’t try to burn it off or use other home remedies). Make sure you remove the whole head of the insect. If you remove a burrowed tick watch for signs of disease or illness like a bullseye rash or other flu-like symptoms.
Bullseye Rash of Lyme Disease
This could be a sign of Lyme Disease. Take precautions and inspect often and the chance of disease is slim.