05/03/2025
Ticks, fleas, and other parasites are out on the prowl. We're seeing an increase in activity as the weather becomes warmer. More pets are coming in for tick exposure and removal.
There are several steps you can take to limit exposure and provide preventative care to protect your dogs and cats.
Ticks are blood-sucking arachnids that search for hosts to attach to. They wait patiently on branches, foliage, tree limbs, grass, etc. Once an animal brushes up against a tick's location, the tick is quick to act and swiftly climbs on to the passing animal.
Ticks are capable of transmitting several diseases to pets and people that can have life-long implications. Some of which can be deadly. It is very important to perform tick-checks after your pet has come in from outside, especially if they have been in wooded areas or brush. The longer a tick remains attached to your pet, the higher the risk becomes for disease transmission.
Keeping your dog and cat on tick prevention is important. There are many options: chewable tablets, topical ointments, and collars. Choose an appropriate, vet-trusted brand and be sure to give preventions on time. Our clinic has several options and can provide further recommendations.
If you find a tick attached to your pet, use a tick-specific tool to remove. Parting the hair around the tick (wetting the fur can help). You can purchase tick twisters from our clinic or most pet stores. If using tweezers at home, be careful to not squeeze too tightly or suddenly change direction with the tweezers while holding the tick, as this can cause the embedded head or mouth parts to break off in the pets skin. We will gladly assist clients with tick removal during business hours if you are having difficulty, just call ahead!
Ticks can be found anywhere on a pets body, but can be found in places you may not think to check, such as ears, paws, between toes, "armpits", and even under lips. A thorough tick check is a key component in preventing disease transmission to your pet.
Remember, ticks can cause human disease as well, so limit handling of a tick bare-handed.
Most tick products also treat for fleas and other parasites, so there is added benefit to giving your pet a monthly prevention.
Products we offer in-clinic currently include: Bravecto and Credelio Quattro.
For tick and flea collars, our clinic recommends Seresto brand collars by Elanco. Be sure the product you are purchasing are either from a veterinarian or a veterinary-trusted source.
There are counterfeit "look-a-like" products that may appear to be appropriate, but are not as effective, or worse, can cause harm.
To summarize, ticks and other parasites are very active now, and will continue to be. Keep your pet protected with appropriate preventions, tick-checks, and limit pet exposure to environments where ticks are present and lurking.
For more information on ticks and tick-borne diseases, see the attached article. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our office.
Ticks are the source of many diseases for dogs and humans. Learn about common tick-borne diseases in dogs and symptoms to watch for.
