If tick’s had the ability to create a dating profile, it might read something like this: Persistent nature enthusiast seeking warm-blooded, outdoorsy companion. Enjoys iron-rich drinks, long walks through fallen leaves and thick underbrush. Thrives on physical connection and long-lasting attachment.
Gross, right?
So, how can you keep your pets safe from these enthusiastic love bombers? Let’s start with when and where ticks look for that right partner to cling to.
Black-legged ticks are carriers of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. Their activity is influenced by temperature, not the calendar. Adults can begin looking for a date or um, host, whenever the temperature is just above freezing (4 degrees) meaning that it’s possible to interact with them during all twelve months of the year.
You may not be able to successfully avoid your ex, but you can avoid tick-rich areas when spending time outdoors. On walks, keep pets away from tall grass, overgrown brush and leaf litter. Remain on cleared pathways and trails as much as possible to reduce the risk of picking up a stage 5 clinger.
But listen, as much as we may want to, we can’t just ghost ticks forever. Preparing for a close encounter begins before you ever hit the trail. Speak to your veterinarian about the Lyme disease vaccination (available for dogs) and tick control products for your dog or cat.
There are a variety of options available including: topical and oral products, one month and three month treatments, and multi-use products that can protect your pet from ticks and other parasites. Your veterinary team can assist you in choosing the best tick prevention product depending on where you live, your lifestyle and your pet.
Checking your pet regularly, staying up to date on the annual canine Lyme disease vaccination and administering tick prevention products on schedule is the most effective way to swipe left on ticks and keep your pet protected, safe, single and thriving!
