Trusted Pest Control in Northwest Missouri Since 1970

Our Story

For over 50 years, Preferred Pest Control has been the trusted choice for homes and businesses in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the broader Northwest Missouri area. Founded in 1970 by Russell Smith, the business was soon taken over by his son-in-law, Wally Cooperider.

Wally passionately led Preferred Pest Control for decades, building its reputation for reliable service. In 2012, the family legacy continued when his son, Perry Cooperider, and Perry’s wife, Dawn, joined the company. In 2015, Perry and Dawn officially acquired the business, expanding services to include specialized bed bug removal and upholding our commitment to expert pest control. We’re known for being Tough on Pests, Easy on You!

Today, under Perry and Dawn’s leadership, we continue Wally’s tradition of excellence, providing effective termite control and comprehensive pest solutions with a focus on our community.

That’s “The Preferred Way.”

preferred pest team photo
preferred pest team photo

Expert Pest Control You Can Trust

We’re dedicated to protecting your home and business with expert pest control solutions. Our professional team works tirelessly to keep your space free of unwanted guests, using proven techniques and the highest standards of care. Whether you’re facing an infestation at home or at the office, our experienced exterminators are committed to providing effective treatments and superior customer service—so you can enjoy a cleaner, pest-free environment. 

We provide pest control that is fast, friendly, and dependable. 
Tough on Pests. Easy on You.

Reviews
5 Star Review

The staff at Preferred Pest have always done a fantastic job and Amanda was no exception. Prompt, polite, and professional. She took the time to answer any of my questions and made sure I had no ongoing concerns.

Eli Chase
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Justin was friendly and upon seeing our spider problem went above and beyond our expectations to get rid of them!

Melinda Masters
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

It was a super easy experience working with preferred pest control. They were on time, explained everything very well AND they were much more affordable than other companies.

Keigan Schaffer
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Jenny is always positive and informative and courteous

Cheryl Peters
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

If you are looking to get rid of your pest issues from a company that really cares, this is your company. From the office people, to ALL of the technicians, as well as the owners they are AMAZING people. Not only do they care about their customers, but they also care tremendously for their staff. Great at what they do and I would recommend them to anyone and everyone! 10/10 Happy with this company and can’t wait to see their growth even further than they have!

Laramie Smith
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Amanda was prompt, friendly and very thorough. I appreciated her expertise on my issue but mostly the care and concern she exhibited. Would definitely recommend!

Tanya Thompson
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Jenny has always been friendly and professional to work with, I appreciate the great service she provides each and every time.

Amy Patterson
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Updated 6/16/25....Have been using Preferred Pest for several years now for annual termite inspection. David is always pleasant, polite and professional. Definitely our preferred pest control company.

Donn Bonn
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

We had great service! Jenny was very kind and patient!

Talynn Miller
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Did a bat exclusion and did a fabulous job! My bats are gone. Jill was wonderful! They even hung my bat house for me! I am just hoping some bats find the house soon! I don’t mind them here, just don’t want them to end up in my house, they can certainly live outside and feast on my bugs 😁

Heather H.
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

We love Will, always super friendly & answers any questions that I have.

Cassie Pankake
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

We always have a great, hassle-free experience. From the scheduling of our appointment time to paying our invoice, Preferred always makes it the easiest possible. Caulin provides excellent service and is super knowledgeable about what is best. Thanks!

The Studio By Seth Bradley
Savannah Office
Missouri Pest Management Association
St Joseph Chamber of Commerce
National Pest Management Association