top of page
Parasitic bed bugs on the cloth.jpg

BED BUGS...
Do You Know Who You’re Sleeping With?

Our bed bug canine teams are nationally trained, tested and certified through the National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association (NESDCA), Working Dog Detector Dog Organization (WDDO), and Canine Pest Detection Association (CPDA) We specialize in Commercial and Senior Living Canine Bed Bug Inspections. We offer monthly, and quarterly inspections as well as one-
time inspections and medical emergency inspections. We also conduct pre- and post-treatment inspections, and pre- and post- event inspections.

Bed bugs can be hard to find and identify, given their small size and their habit of staying hidden. A single female bug can lay enough eggs over the course of weeks causing a full blown infestation. Our highly trained Canine Bed Bug Teams play a valuable role in identifying bed bug activity long before it becomes an infestation.

We specialize in the following areas:


• Senior Living
• College Dorms
• Commercial Warehouses
• Medical and Hospital Environments
• Residential
• Municipal Facilities
• High Rises
• Camps
• YMCAs
• Hospitality Industry
• Special Events

The common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) has long been a pest—feeding on blood, causing itchy bites and generally irritating their human hosts. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) all consider bed bugs a public health pest. However, unlike most public health pests, bed bugs are not known to transmit or spread disease. They can, however, cause other public health issues, including:

  • Allergic reactions to their bites, which can be severe.

  • Secondary infections of the skin from the bite reaction

  • Mental health impacts on people living in infested homes. Reported effects include anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, and systemic reactions. Experts believe the recent increase in bed bugs in the United States may be due to more travel, lack of knowledge about preventing infestations, increased resistance of bed bugs to pesticides, and ineffective pest control practices.

 

We would love to be a part of your bed bug early detection program, saving you money and giving you a peace of mind. Please call for more information or a free site visit and quote.

Get Started Today!

Ready to schedule an appointment or site visit?

  • What signals the start of a bed bug infestation?
    An increase in the population often starts with the introduction of a few bugs, usually through infested clothing, luggage, or second-hand furniture. Signs of an infestation can include bites, blood stains on sheets, and dark spots from feces.
  • How many eggs do bed bugs lay?
    A female bed bug can lay between 1 to 5 eggs per day and over 200 to 500 eggs in her lifetime, typically depositing them in cracks and crevices close to food sources.
  • How can I prevent bed bugs from entering my home?
    Preventive measures include maintaining cleanliness, inspecting second-hand items, using protective covers on mattresses, being cautious while traveling (especially in hotels), and regularly monitoring for signs of infestation.
  • Can bed bugs reproduce quickly?
    Yes, under ideal conditions (sufficient food and warmth), bed bugs can reproduce rapidly, leading to a significant population increase in a short time.
  • What is the life cycle of a bed bug?
    Bed bugs undergo a simple life cycle that includes three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The average life cycle from egg to adult can take about 5 to 6 weeks under optimal conditions.
  • What is a bed bug nymph?
    Nymphs are young bed bugs that resemble adults but are smaller and lighter in color. They molt several times before reaching maturity, requiring a blood meal before each molt.
  • How do bed bugs feed?
    Bed bugs feed on the blood of humans or animals by using their specialized mouthparts to pierce the skin and withdraw blood. Feeding usually occurs at night while their host is asleep.
  • How long can bed bugs live?
    Adult bed bugs can live for several months to over a year without feeding. Their lifespan can be affected by factors such as temperature, access to food, and humidity.
  • What conditions do bed bugs prefer for their life cycle?
    Bed bugs thrive in warm environments, typically around 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). They also prefer to be near their food source and can survive in various hiding spots.
  • What do bed bug eggs look like?
    Bed bug eggs are tiny (about 1mm), white, and have an oval shape. They are often sticky, allowing them to adhere to surfaces.
  • What are bed bug detection dogs?
    Bed bug detection dogs are specially trained canines that can locate the scent of bed bugs and their eggs. They use their exceptional sense of smell to detect infestations quickly and efficiently.
  • How accurate are bed bug detection dogs?
    When properly trained and handled, bed bug detection dogs can achieve accuracy rates above 90%. However, false positives can occur, so a follow-up inspection may be recommended to confirm findings.
  • Can detection dogs identify other pests?
    While some dogs are trained to detect multiple pests, bed bug detection dogs are specifically trained to recognize the scent of bed bugs. Different training is needed for other types of insects or pests.
  • What situations benefit from using detection dogs?
    Bed bug detection dogs are useful in hotels, residential buildings, hospitals, and schools. They can efficiently assess large areas and help find infestations that might go unnoticed during visual inspections.
  • How do I know if the detection team is reputable?
    Look for teams that have certifications from recognized organizations, experienced trainers, and a solid track record in pest detection. Check reviews and ask for references.
  • Is training a detection dog costly?
    Training and certifying a bed bug detection dog can be a significant investment. However, the benefits of quick and accurate detection can save time and money in pest management.
  • What should I do after a dog detects bed bugs?
    If a detection dog indicates the presence of bed bugs, it's crucial to follow up with a thorough inspection and professional pest control treatment to effectively address the infestation.
  • Are your dogs certified, and how often do they certify?
    Yes, our dogs are certified through NESDCA (National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association), WDDO (Working Dogs for Detection of Bed Bugs), and CPDA (Canine Pest Detection Association). We certify annually to maintain high standards of detection.
  • What breeds are commonly used for bed bug detection?
    Breeds like Beagles, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers are often used due to their strong sense of smell, trainability, and ability to work in various environments.
  • How do bed bug detection teams work?
    A trained dog, accompanied by a handler, searches an area for bed bugs. When the dog detects the scent, it will alert the handler, usually by sitting, staying, or indicating the location in another way.
  • How often should I have K9 inspections done?
    The frequency of inspections depends on the level of risk in your environment. High-risk areas may benefit from more frequent inspections, while lower-risk areas can have inspections less often.

Certifications

Memberships

WDDO logo
CPDA logo
nesdca1.png
nesdca2.png
NPMA logo
NWCOA logo.png
IC&RWDA.png
bottom of page