Kurt successfully creates an all-natural deer repellent by experimenting with solutions in his garage— and it works! ohDEER is born.
Learn the journey and inspiration
behind ohDEER’s beginnings
We think people deserve a third option. So that’s what we give ’em: Effective, eco-friendly tick, mosquito, and deer control. As you learn more about ohDEER, you’ll find that’s what we’re all about—providing safe and natural solutions that protect people, pets, and the environment.
If you’re thinking about becoming an ohDEER franchisee, we’re going to make two educated guesses: You love being outside, and you care about people. Us, too. In fact, it’s our whole mission: to help people enjoy a backyard where kids can play, dogs can explore, and adults can garden, grill, or relax, without worrying about ticks and mosquitoes.
We never want our customers to be worried about the safety of their family just to get rid of a few insects. That’s why we started with all-natural, eco-friendly products and have stuck with these formulas ever since. It’s what we believe in, not just something we have to do to keep up with a new regulation.
We also care deeply about the people who wear our uniforms. Spending your day in a gas mask spraying chemicals is no way to live. In fact, it will cut your life short. It’s not worth it, especially when a pest-free backyard doesn’t have to come at the expense of a healthy ecosystem.
Since he was a little boy growing up in Weston, Massachusetts, ohDEER founder Kurt Upham has been fascinated by animals, especially deer. In 2006, he began experimenting with an all-natural deer control formula that would keep deer away from his neighbor’s apple trees without harming them. (He also loves animals.) Word of mouth quickly spread, and people began seeking out “that deer guy.” And ohDEER was born. Today you’ll find ohDEER fans up and down the Eastern Seaboard. The only non-fans? Deer, mosquitoes, and ticks. But Kurt can live with that.
There’s a reason parents tell their kids to “go get some fresh air.” Being outside is good for your body and your brain! Unlike flossing or taking vitamins, it’s actually fun, too. Our mission—what really drives our team and franchisees—isn’t just about getting rid of bugs in an eco-friendly way. It’s about helping people feel safe and comfortable in their backyards and beyond. Because there’s a whole wide world out there to explore. Let’s go!
“Kevin (Bryan’s dog) gets me outside even on days where I don’t want to be. I’m so grateful to have him around.”
The latest addition to the ohDEER four-legged family is a sweet rescue named Kevin. Bryan’s experience as a “dog dad” has helped him better understand customers’ desire to protect their pets and make outdoor spaces a safer place for them to play!
“Compete in a golf tournament and show your team you’ve still got it.”
Colleen’s spirit of encouragement and support extends to her relationships with our franchisees. She’s always there to cheer them on and celebrate their success. This attitude also extends to her golf buddies, who are lucky to have such a talented addition to their team. Not that you’d ever hear her brag, but we’ve seen her in action and can only say, “Wow!”
“Start and end your day with a short walk outside. Or a long walk, if you’ve got the time!”
Dave’s passion for outdoor adventures aligns perfectly with our mission at ohDEER—protecting families from tick-borne illnesses so they can enjoy more time outside worry-free. For Dave and his family, this means cheering on his kids’ soccer games, hitting the beach with the whole family, and trail hiking with his wife.
“Get outside for a run, you’ll see things you never recognized when driving by the same area.”
As a dedicated dad of four, Jereme loves when his kids and wife join him outdoors for some family fun together, whether it’s fishing, hiking or just biking around their neighborhood. While Jereme’s role at ohDEER doesn’t require him to be outdoors, his passion for nature gives him a unique insight into what makes a good franchisee: “People who respect nature and enjoy spending time outside are always the best fit.”
“Exploring has always been in my blood, and I continue to do it to this day. More time outside is for me!”
Kurt’s passion for the outdoors is the backbone of ohDEER’s mission. “We want families and their pets to enjoy more time outside!” Kurt loves sitting by his outdoor firepit (after it has been sprayed for mosquitoes, of course), walking his labs in the woods, and biking the rail trail by his house.
“Try outdoor yoga and let the fresh air recharge you.”
We want our audience to enjoy more time outside, and Leah does a great job capturing content of the great outdoors. Whether she’s biking, paddleboarding or collecting seashells, Leah is happy to spend time immersed in nature.
“Fresh air is always an ingredient to happiness and joy.”
Todd is passionate about creating exceptional experiences for both our franchisees and customers, ensuring franchisee success and a first-class experience for everyone who chooses ohDEER. When he’s not hard at work, you’ll find Todd enjoying the great outdoors with family —whether it’s camping under the stars, navigating thrilling white-water rapids, or relaxing by the ocean. Todd also has a deep love for music and theater, where he finds creativity and connection that inspire his work.
Kurt successfully creates an all-natural deer repellent by experimenting with solutions in his garage— and it works! ohDEER is born.
Kurt began servicing customers with Deer Control.
ohDEER expands to include Tick & Mosquito Control.
ohDEER launches its successful Take Initiative Check Kids (T.I.C.K.) program and T.I.C.K9 for dogs! Learn more here
ohDEER is operating out of a barn in Wayland, MA.
The first franchise opens on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
ohDEER continues to expand its presence along the Eastern Seaboard and beyond, in keeping with its original mission: helping people spend more time outdoors!
