May 30, 2022
Dogs can be trained to detect bed bugs in homes and other areas. This can be particularly useful when it comes to checking in tough-to-reach areas. Although their training must be constant and a professional pest control technician must supervise their work. If you suspect you have an infestation, call in a technician who can train your dog and find your bed bugs for you. However, if you want to know more about how dogs can help you locate bed bugs, we’ve just the thing for you. Here’s everything you need to know about how dogs can help you detect bed bugs in your home.
In 2008, researchers found that trained dogs could be used to locate bed bugs. They were able to differentiate between bed bugs and other household pests, like German cockroaches, Florida carpenter ants, and subterranean termites. Dogs were trained to detect bed bugs by their odor, not by sight. Bed bugs release a particular scent, and the dogs were trained to recognize it. This method allowed them to inspect hidden crevices and behind walls, where bed bugs tend to hide.
A University of Florida study of dogs found that they would scratch near the surface when they detected bed bugs. Dogs showed a 97.5% rate of distinguishing live bed bugs from eggs and exoskeletons. Additionally, dogs could differentiate between live and dead bed bugs with 95% accuracy.
The most commonly used dogs for bed bug detection are Beagles. The dog’s low-hanging ears help trap smells in the air, and its nose has about 200 million scent receptors that can differentiate between smells. The Beagle was initially used for rabbit detection, but it can now be used to detect various things, including pests and contraband. Other dogs that can be used for bed bug detection include Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Terriers. Each dog possesses a strong sense of smell that can help locate bed bugs and other pests and wildlife.
Although bed bugs do not remain on humans or pets for very long, they do need blood to survive. If humans are unavailable, bed bugs will try to feed on other blood sources, such as pets. Bed bug bites feel itchy because of the saliva they inject into the skin. This reaction causes the immune system to create hives. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual, it may be wise to check for bed bugs.
We hope this article proves helpful in helping you better understand how dogs can help you locate bed bugs in your home. As you can see, dogs can be an effective way to deter a full-on bed bug invasion.
While your dog can certainly be helpful in detecting bed bugs, professional help will go a long way in helping you deal with your bed bug problem. In need of bed bug detection in NYC? Discreet Bedbug Inspection is the top bed bug inspection company in the New York Metro Area. Get in touch with us today!
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