Fall & Ticks: What Families Need to Know

The short answer: tick season doesn’t end with summer. If it’s ~40°F or warmer, ticks can stay active, especially in leaf litter and brush. Keep checks and quick brush-offs part of your fall routine for kids, pets, and gear.

Why ticks stay active in the fall

• Mild autumns means longer activity. Fewer hard freezes let ticks keep questing.

• Leaf piles hold moisture. Damp, shaded leaf litter is prime tick habitat.

• Busy schedules means more exposure. Sports, raking, dog walks, and playground time all create contact points.

Simple fall habits that lower risk

• Clear leaf piles and brush. Bag leaves; keep woodpiles tidy and dry.

• Trim edges around play areas. Maintain a clean border near swing sets, dog runs, and paths.

• Do a daily tick check. After practice, raking, or walks—check hairline, armpits, waistline, behind knees, ankles, and on pets: ears, collar line, belly, between toes, tail base.

• Brush off before you go inside. Use TiCK MiTT to remove loose ticks from clothing, skin, and pet fur at the door.

• Dry clothes on high heat. 10 minutes in the dryer helps kill hidden ticks.

• Stay alert on mild days. Above-freezing temps—especially in shady, brushy spots—keep ticks moving.

Fast answers parents search for

Q: Do ticks die off when summer ends?
A: No. Many stay active in fall and on mild winter days whenever it’s warm enough.

Q: Where are ticks active in the fall?
A: Leaf piles, tall grass, wooded edges, brush around schoolyards and backyards, dog parks, and trailheads.

Q: Why is this a bigger issue for kids and pets?
A: Kids play low to the ground and in leaves; pets explore brush and can bring ticks indoors.

Q: What should parents do right now?
A: Dress in long sleeves/pants when possible, use EPA-approved repellents, do daily checks, and remove loose ticks before entering the house. Ask your vet about pet prevention and check fur, ears, paws, and tail base after yard time or walks.

Q: How does TiCK MiTT help in the fall?
A: A few quick swipes remove loose/unattached ticks from clothes, skin, and pet coats after time outside—simple at the door, no chemicals, and fast for busy evenings.

Step-by-step: quick fall tick check with TiCK MiTT

1. Shoes → Socks → Ankles

2. Waistline → Back of knees → Armpits

3. Hairline and behind ears

4. Pets: collar/neck, ears, belly, between toes, tail base

Bottom line

If it’s ~40°F or warmer, ticks are still a concern. Keep checking, keep brushing off, and keep your TiCK MiTT by the door all season.