ODNR Division of Wildlife - Wild Resources - Tick Bite Prevention and Removal

Preventing Tick Bites

Tick Species Comparisons
Tick-borne Diseases
Tick Removal

American dog ticks, blacklegged ticks, and lone star ticks can all pose a threat to outdoorsmen and women during the fall hunting seasons. A few simple measures can decrease your chances of being bitten by a harmful tick while out in the field.

  • Know when and where to expect ticks.
    • Blacklegged ticks are found in the woods; dog ticks are in grassy areas and road edges.
  • Use repellents according to labels.
  • Tuck your pants into your socks and boots and tuck your shirt into your pants.
  • Check yourself, family, and pets regularly and remove ticks immediately.
  • Use anti-tick products on pets.
  • Ask your veterinarian about Lyme vaccines for pets where blacklegged ticks are found.
  • Create a tick-safe zone in your yard.


To use tick repellent properly follow these steps:

  1. First, purchase an insect repellent containing permethrin.
  2. Apply the permethrin to your pants and boots and allow them to dry.
  3. When heading to the field, tuck your pants into your boots to prevent tick access to your skin.

Once the permethrin is dry, it has no odor and leaves no stain. The repellent should remain effective throughout the hunting season, even with exposure to moisture or hot-water washing.

Permethrin label Purchase an insect repellent containing permethrin. Be sure to follow all directions on the bottle and avoid contact with your skin.

Photo credit: Glen Needham
Repellent with pants and boots Apply the permethrin to your boots and pants. The repellent is odorless and will not impact the success of your hunt.

Photo credit: Glen Needham
Spraying pants Apply the permethrin to your pants and allow them to dry completely.

Photo credit: Glen Needham
Spraying boots Also, apply the permethrin to your boots and allow them to dry.

Photo credit: Glen Needham
Exposed skin Do not leave your skin exposed. Ticks may take advantage of your exposed ankles.

Photo credit: Glen Needham
Pants tucked into boot Tuck your pants into your boots completely and tie your boots securely. You are now ready to take to the field.

Photo credit: Glen Needham

Tick Removal

If you are bitten by a tick, do not panic. Carefully remove the tick, including its mouth parts, from your skin. Carefully monitor your health in the days to come. It may take several days for symptoms of illness to arise.



Learn more about proper tick removal from the Ohio State University.