Bed bugs frequently impact the healthcare, multifamily, and hospitality industries. Why? Because bed bugs go where people go – and there are a lot of people coming and going from these types of businesses. If you wait until there are visible signs of bed bug activity at your property, you could have let a small introduction turn into a widespread and costly issue. Bed bugs reproduce quickly, so it’s better to operate on the defensive – rather than the offensive – when it comes to controlling this pest.
Finding their way into the smallest cracks and crevices, sometimes a human eye simply isn’t enough to know the full scope of a bed bug issue. That’s why canine inspections may be just what your business needs to stay protected and informed.
The Power of Canine Inspection
Canine inspection teams provide an unparalleled level of accuracy in pinpointing bed bug activity. These dogs are rigorously trained to detect even the faintest scent of live bed bugs or even just one viable egg, ensuring no introduction goes unnoticed.
The Benefits of Canine Detection
Canine detection offers several key advantages that make it an effective tool in the fight against bed bugs. Bed bug dogs enhance accuracy and allow for quicker coverage of potentially affected areas – significantly improving the inspection process’ efficiency.
Unmatched Accuracy:
With an incredible sense of smell and diligent training, canine teams can detect bed bugs with far greater accuracy than human inspectors alone. In fact, the Western bed bug dogs and handlers provide the highest level of effectiveness validated (95-98%) in detecting bed bugs at the time of inspection. In addition, some canine dogs receive more than 600 hours of training before they enter the field. But it’s more than just the dogs. Some handlers are also trained and certified and have extensive field experience working with and managing canine behavior under real-life working conditions in many different environments. Not just anyone can do that job, and if only the dog is trained, then it’s just not as accurate as it could be.Comprehensive Coverage:
These canines can inspect large areas quickly – up to 125 rooms per day – and thoroughly, leaving no hiding spots unchecked.Cost-Effective:
By identifying bed bug introductions early, before they become widespread, treatment is more effective, more targeted, and less disruptive.
Bed bugs are no joke for any business. Between costly overhauls, downtime, and reputation risks, these pests should not be ignored. Canine detection is a great way (and really the only way) to stay proactive in your management plan, helping to keep you and your bottom line protected.
An Integrated Strategy is a Winning Strategy
While canine detection is often considered the most effective detection tactic in your bed bug arsenal, there are other strategies you can implement at your business to defend against infestations during your day-to-day responsibilities.
Quick Response:
Have a procedure in place for reported beg bug sightings, including who should be told and how quickly the area should be closed off to the public. Quick reaction times to a bed bug introduction will help prevent them from becoming a full-on bed bug infestation.Staff Training:
Educate employees on bed bug identification, signs of activity, and proper reporting procedures. This creates a vigilant first line of defense and sets you and your pest management team up for success.Preventive Measures:
While cleanliness is less of a factor for bed bugs than for other pests, there are some preventive measures you can take. Consider implementing mattress and box spring encasements to help make detection easier. Opt for hard-surface floors in bedrooms instead of carpet to limit bed bugs’ mobility. Reduce clutter to help manage potential hiding spots.By implementing these strategies, businesses can create a robust defense against bed bug infestations, protecting their reputation and ensuring a safe environment for employees and guests alike.
Ready to Unleash the Power of Canine Detection?
Bed bug dogs provide a highly effective solution for detecting bed bugs early and accurately. And when implemented with an integrated pest management plan, you can rest assured you’re prepared for the fight against bed bugs. Contact Western Pest Services today to schedule a canine inspection, and our experts will work closely with you to develop a plan customized to your business.