News & Events

Schendel First In Kansas To Heat Treat Bed Bugs

February 1, 2010
Infestations of these blood-sucking insects are on the rise in Midwest; Heat Treatment is the only proven method to kill bed bugs at all stages of growth and Schendel Pest Services is proud to be the first Kansas pest control company to fully utilize bed bug heat treatments. read more…

Schendel Pest Services offers tips for preventing pest infestations during the holiday

December 21, 2009
(Topeka, KS)—With the holiday season upon us, families across the country will begin pulling out boxes of decorations and digging into pantries for baking ingredients. But with these annual traditions comes the risk of bringing a variety of pests – from mice, rodents and spiders to a group of insects known as “pantry pests” – into homes.  Schendel Pest Services encourages homeowners to use caution to prevent unwelcome pest guests this season.

“Mice, rodents, spiders and other pests find their way into homes by hiding in boxes of holiday decorations that have been stored in attics, basements and garages since last season,” says Brent Boles, president of Schendel Pest Services. “They create homes in these undisturbed items and then find new places to infest once these boxes are moved into family areas such as living rooms and kitchens.” read more…

Bring Home Memories – Not Bed Bugs – This Holiday Season

November 10, 2009

As Thanksgiving and Christmas draw near, Schendel Pest Services reminds all travelers of the risk of bringing home bed bugs from their holiday travels.  The National Pest Management Association has noted a 71% increase in reports of bed bugs since 2001.  

 One reason that bed bugs pose such a problem for travelers is their keen ability to “hitchhike.” Bed bugs can travel easily – from beds to sofa cushions, from room to room and even home via suitcases.  

The current bed bug infestation is more prevalent on the coasts, so it’s especially important for those traveling east or west to be very cautious so as to avoid bringing bed bugs to their homes in the Midwest.  Once an infestation develops, bed bugs are extremely difficult to remove and require the experience of a pest professional to eliminate an infestation.

Schendel to Host AIB Training Seminar on November 12

October 27, 2009

October 27, 2009 (Topeka, KS) — Schendel Pest Services has joined forces with the American Institute of Baking International (AIB) to host a seminar for the employees of third-party inspected food production facilities on Thursday, November 12 at the Phoenix Doubletree Guest Suites in Phoenix, AZ.  The goal of the seminar is to educate employees and their managers about critical changes in third-party inspection regulations and safety programs, namely those of AIB.  Al St. Cyr, Head of Food Safety Education for AIB, will conduct the day-long seminar.

Temperatures Cool, Brown Recluse Not So Reclusive

October 19, 2009

October 19, 2009 (Topeka, KS) — As fall begins, Schendel Pest Services wants to remind homeowners of the real health threat posed by the brown recluse spider, a frequently misidentified species.  With bites that can take three hours to develop and three weeks or longer to heal, the brown recluse injects a venom which can cause severe allergic reactions.  These reactions are most notable in children, the elderly, or those with preexisting medical conditions.

Often identified by a dark brown violin shape on its back, the brown recluse spider is predominantly found in the Midwest and Southeast of the United States.   According to Schendel President Brent Boles, “Our area is often referred to by entomologists as ‘ground zero’ for brown recluse activity.  As the brown recluse is known for its bites, many assume that this spider is aggressive when actually the opposite is true.  The brown recluse spider will bite, usually unintentionally, when it feels trapped. Whether we dig through our storage in the attic or wear a piece of clothing in which a brown recluse has made its home, their bites are reactionary. Therefore the sheer presence of this pest can increase the potential pest-related health risks facing homeowners and their families.”

Keep Bed Bugs From Going Back To School With College Students

September 21, 2009
As students return to college campuses nationwide, many arrive with memories of summer travel as well as some essential secondhand furniture including mattresses, futons, dressers and more. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), this combination poses serious concerns, as there has been a 71% increase in reports of bed bugs since 2001. While termed bed bugs, these nocturnal pests, when introduced to new environments, can spread quickly to infest sofas, chairs, picture frames and other staples of college dorm décor.
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Roberts Named New Vice President and General Manager

August 28, 2009

August 31 2009 (TOPEKA, KS) – Schendel Pest Services today announced the addition of Steve Roberts as the company’s new Vice President/General Manager.  Roberts comes to Schendel with more than 25 years of management experience with the Sprint Corporation, where he held various positions within the company’s accounting, process improvement, billing and information technology organizations.

With Warmer Weather, Fleas Reemerge As A Pest Threat

May 11, 2009

May 11 2009 (TOPEKA, KS) – As temperatures rise and families – including pets – flock outdoors to enjoy the spring weather, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) warns that fleas can cause significant health and property threats for homeowners and their pets.

Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of warm-blooded bodies and have an extraordinary ability to jump, allowing them to move easily once inside a property. Although closely associated with pets, as flea saliva can cause anemia, dermatitis and transfer tapeworms, these pests can cause significant problems for homeowners as well. Fleas often infest blankets, furniture and even clothing, while also reproducing quickly, especially when warm-blooded hosts are present. Even more, the presence of fleas – if not brought in from the outdoors – can be indicative of a secondary pest problem as these pests frequently transport themselves on rodents.

Tips For Pest Proofing Your Home In Winter

November 19, 2008

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Schendel Marks 60th Anniversary

October 30, 2007

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