Ticks & Tick-Borne Diseases

What are Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases?

Ticks are parasitic creatures that can latch onto pets and people, spreading diseases like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. These illnesses can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

Image courtesy of Zoetis Animal Health

How Do Pets Get Ticks?

Ticks can attach to your pet during outdoor activities like hiking, playing in the yard, or even by transferring from your own clothing. Once a tick bites, it can transmit diseases in as little as 3 hours.

Preventing Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases

Year-round use of tick prevention products is essential. Additionally, check your pets daily for ticks, especially after outdoor activities, and remove ticks promptly using a Tick Twister or tweezers. The Lyme vaccine is also recommended for dogs in tick-prone areas.

What to Do if You Find a Tick on Your Pet

Remove the tick carefully with a tick removal tool. Avoid squeezing the tick or using substances like alcohol. If you're unsure how to remove it, contact your veterinarian. Testing for tick-borne diseases is recommended about four weeks after exposure.

Preventive Products and Treatments

Oral or topical preventatives help protect your pets from tick bites. In high-risk environments, dual protection with a repellant product (such as a collar) and systemic prevention is recommended. Always consult your veterinarian before applying any flea and tick products, especially for pets that live with cats.