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

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

Will is amazing. He is very professional and does a thorough job. He doesn’t rush you if you have concerns and lets you know he is always here if you need him. I would give him a 10 star

Ro Hazel
Savannah Office
4 Star Review

Amanda was very thorough in explaining what she was doing. Her routine was a bit different that what worked well for the others techs and myself so the dog got a bit antsy waiting on new routine. It all worked out in the end.

Debbie Steinbrenner
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Jill answered our call and concerns with a mouse problem. She inspected the inside and outside and came up with a solution. She found 2 entry points and ordered a thick heaven duty strip across the bottom of the inside garage door to keep the mice out.Then used steel wool & styrofoam along the baseboard that leads into the Rec room, completely sealing it off from the garage. Set bait traps around the exterior perimeter and found out which side had the most activity. Used steel wool again to seal off the access point. It’s been over 3 months now with no issues. .

Terry Richardson
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Greg was quite personable and professional. Was in and out on no time and hopefully his visit will keep the bugs away.

Sherry Reeder
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Will was very personable and thorough. He took his time and then checked with us to see if we were satisfied before he left. We were very pleased.

Christine Martin
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Justin is friendly. He gives me updates on how the boxes are looking if we are having pests inside or outside. Great job Justin!

Tammy Beattie
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

David is always on time and let's me know 5min before he is arriving explains everything to me and even shows me what to look for if there is a problem starting

James Merrow
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Always do a fantastic job and employees are accommodating to your needs, reliable and very polite. Thanks Preferred Pest Control

Lovejoy Manufactured and Modular Home Sales
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Very sweet lady, and made sure to explain everything to me! Will continue using them to help my problems

Hayley Beers
Savannah Office
5 Star Review

Great service, definitely recommend and would use again!

Beverly L. Anderson
St Joseph Office
5 Star Review

Jenny was great she’s been out a few times for little mice and has been more than amazing to work with

Allene Throckmorton
St Joseph Office
Missouri Pest Management Association
St Joseph Chamber of Commerce
National Pest Management Association