Thanksgiving is one of the most anticipated times of the year—filled with family, travel, and celebration. But while you’re away enjoying the holiday, your home can become a target for unwanted pests. The combination of cooler weather and an empty house creates the perfect opportunity for rodents, insects, and wildlife to move in. For homeowners across Dallas-Fort Worth, Southlake, Keller, and Fort Worth, pest-proofing your home before you travel is one of the smartest ways to prevent infestations and ensure you come home to peace, not problems.
At Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control, we know how quickly pests can take advantage of an unattended property—especially during late fall when they’re seeking warmth and food. Whether you’re heading out of town for a long weekend or an extended family visit, here’s how to pest-proof your home before your Thanksgiving trip.
Why Pests Target Empty Homes During Thanksgiving
As temperatures drop in North Texas, many pests—including rodents, roaches, and ants—start looking for shelter from the cold. When a home is left quiet and dark for several days, it creates the perfect environment for pests to explore without disturbance.
In addition, holiday preparations often involve large meals and more trash than usual, both of which can attract pests if not properly managed before you leave. Even small crumbs, dirty dishes, or unsealed pet food can become a food source for hungry invaders.
If your home isn’t properly secured, these pests can easily move in while you’re away:
- Mice and rats, seeking warmth in attics, walls, or pantries
- Cockroaches, drawn to leftover crumbs or moisture
- Ants, finding access through foundation cracks or window seals
- Spiders, nesting in quiet corners or closets
- Wildlife, like raccoons or squirrels, entering through vents or roof gaps
The key to keeping them out is taking a few proactive steps before you head out the door.
1. Inspect for Entry Points
Start by giving your home a quick exterior inspection. Pests can enter through gaps as small as a dime, so pay close attention to:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Gaps around windows and door frames
- Openings around plumbing and utility lines
- Attic and crawl space vents
- Torn window or door screens
Seal small cracks with weather-resistant caulk and replace damaged screens. If you suspect rodents, add metal mesh over larger openings and install door sweeps on exterior doors.
These small efforts create a solid barrier that makes it harder for pests to find a way in while you’re gone.
2. Eliminate Food and Water Sources
Before you travel, it’s crucial to remove anything that could feed or attract pests. Start with the kitchen:
- Empty and clean trash bins, both inside and outside.
- Wipe down counters and sweep floors to remove crumbs or sticky residue.
- Store all dry goods—especially cereals, grains, and snacks—in airtight containers.
- Check pet food containers and seal them tightly.
- Avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink.
Also, check for standing water. Pests like cockroaches and rodents are drawn to moisture, so make sure to:
- Fix dripping faucets or leaks.
- Empty plant trays or pet water bowls.
- Unplug appliances that produce condensation if you’ll be gone for several days.
These steps not only deter pests but also prevent unpleasant odors when you return.
3. Close Off Access to the Attic and Garage
Rodents and wildlife love attics and garages because they provide warmth and shelter. Before traveling, inspect these areas carefully:
- Make sure your attic vents are covered with rodent-proof screening.
- Seal any gaps around garage doors or rooflines.
- Store cardboard boxes and holiday decorations in plastic bins instead.
- Avoid leaving bags of birdseed, pet food, or grass seed accessible.
If you’ve noticed signs of scratching, droppings, or gnaw marks, contact a professional before you leave. The last thing you want is to return from Thanksgiving to find a full rodent nest in your attic.
4. Manage Outdoor Attractants
Your yard can also invite pests closer to your home. Before leaving for the holidays:
- Trim branches that touch or hang near your roof.
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters to reduce moisture buildup.
- Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
- Turn off outdoor lights if possible—bright lighting attracts insects.
If you have a mosquito or pest misting system, make sure it’s properly programmed and serviced before you go. This helps maintain a protective barrier while you’re away.
5. Schedule a Preventive Pest Control Treatment
One of the best ways to protect your home while traveling is to schedule a professional pest control service before Thanksgiving. At Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control, we offer fall treatments that target the pests most active during cooler months. Our technicians can inspect your home, seal vulnerable entry points, and apply safe, effective treatments that provide ongoing protection while you’re gone.
A preventive treatment ensures that any pests looking for a cozy place to stay this November find your home off-limits.
6. Set Up Indoor Deterrents
A few simple habits can also help discourage pests while you’re gone:
- Keep interior lights on timers to create the appearance that someone’s home.
- Close blinds and curtains to limit light that attracts insects.
- Leave ceiling fans on low speed to circulate air and discourage nesting.
If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, ask a trusted neighbor to check your home periodically. Early detection is key to preventing an infestation from spreading.
7. Protecting Your Home Starts Before You Leave
Thanksgiving should be a time of rest and gratitude—not worry. By taking these simple pest-proofing steps before you travel, you’ll return to a clean, safe, and pest-free home.
At Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control, we help homeowners across Dallas-Fort Worth, Southlake, Keller, and surrounding areas keep their homes protected year-round. From rodent exclusion and indoor pest prevention to misting system maintenance, we make it easy to keep unwanted guests out—whether you’re home or away.
If you’re preparing for Thanksgiving travel, now’s the perfect time to schedule your pre-holiday pest inspection.
For more support with professional pest-proofing before your trip, call Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control. We’ll make sure the only visitors this Thanksgiving are the ones you invited.
