Spring is here and that means it’s a great time to take advantage of warm weather, picturesque views and a wide array of seasonal activities. It also presents the perfect opportunity for you to bond with your pet while they get some exercise and explore their natural instincts.
The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) says while it’s important for both you and your dog to get some fresh air, adventuring outside must be done with caution, and pet owners should be on the lookout for seasonal risks, including ticks.
Canada Health says ticks can be active whenever the temperature is consistently above freezing, and the ground isn’t covered by snow. You’re most likely to encounter ticks during the spring, summer, and fall. However, when conditions are favourable, ticks can be active at any time of the year.
With our early spring this year, it’s very likely that ticks will be active much earlier.
The OVMA says that, in Ontario, the black-legged tick—or the deer tick—is the only known species to carry Lyme disease, an infection that can cause long-term rheumatological and neurological issues. Only five to 10 per cent of dogs will develop the disease after being bitten and the most serious long-term consequence is the development of kidney disease.
For humans, it can take anywhere from three days to one month for signs of the disease to appear. But for dogs, it can take longer for symptoms to develop, which can include joint pain, fever, and malaise.
To protect you and your dog speak with your veterinarian about preventive treatments, including oral and topical products that help kill and repel ticks.
You should also try to keep your pets in the centre of walking trails, maintain your yards and gardens, and to tick-check both yourself and your dogs at least once a day.
An attached tick needs to be removed carefully so the entire tick, including the mouthparts, is removed. The tick should be removed with a twisting motion, as this will cause the tick to release fully intact.
When removing a tick, it’s important to wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the tick. After it’s removed, it should be placed in a small jar with alcohol and sent for testing to determine the species. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the tick and contact your veterinarian to discuss testing your dog for any tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease.
Keep an eye out for these dangerous pests and have a safe and happy summer.