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I have, afaik, have never been bitten by one or had much concern that I might.

This kind of blows my mind. Presumably you don't spend a great deal of time off pavement?

I think this depends largely on your location. I live in northwestern Oregon, and whereas there are ticks here, they aren't very prevalent. Despite constantly knocking about in the brush, I have yet to get a tick either.

As a basement-dweller myself, I also got a few ticks from my cat. He collects them in his fur, comes inside to feed, sleep and cuddle, and sometimes a tick decides that I'm yummier than the cat.

Dog-owners do report the same problem, at least if the animal is allowed close contact with humans for more than a few seconds apiece.

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