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 Ticks are common and abundant in Ohio and can carry Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Canine Ehrlichiosis, and Tularemia. Ticks feed on the blood of animals, attaching themselves to the animal with special mouth parts. Disease results from bacteria in the tick's mouth being transferred into the bloodstream of the animal.
The deer tick that carries Lyme Disease can be found in the woods, ponds, parks, playgrounds, and in your own backyard. Studies have shown that dogs are 50% more susceptible to Lyme disease than humans. Lyme disease cannot be transmitted directly from your pet to your family, but if ticks are found in your area your family is at risk as well.
Canine Ehrlichiosis is the second most common infectious disease in the United States, and is spreading every year. Ehrlichiosis can result in permanent blindness, autoimmune diseases, bleeding complications, and even death.
How to protect your pet:
- Avoid ticks. Ticks are active year round in Southwestern Ohio.
- Brush your dog after each outing.
- Use tick collars and/or insect repellents as recommended by your veterinarian.
- Cut brush and mow grass where your dog plays.
- Do daily "tick checks" on yourself, your dog, and any children in your family.
- Get your pet vaccinated for Lyme disease. Lymevax has been proven to be safe and effective.
- See your veterinarian for regular examinations. A simple blood test can check for Lyme and Ehrlichiosis. Early detection of these diseases is critical to successful treatment.
What to do if you find a tick on your pet:
- Use small tweezers to firmly grip the tick's mouthparts as close to the skin as possible. Pull the tick straight out, slowly and steadily.
- Destroy the tick by immersing it in rubbing alcohol. DO NOT squish or pop the tick, as bacteria in the tick can become airborne and infect you or your family.
- Apply antiseptic to the bitten area, and wash your hands.
- Talk to your veterinarian about testing for possible infection, and methods and products designed to prevent ticks and tick-borne illnesses.
The caring doctors and staff at Hills & Dales Veterinary Clinic are committed to helping you protect your pet from ticks and other threats. We offer advanced detection and treatment for tick-borne illnesses, as well as a full line of products to prevent ticks from biting. For more information please call our office at 293-1993.
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