As the seasons change and outdoor adventures become more frequent, so does the risk of tick exposure for our pets. At Peak Veterinary Referral Center, we want pet parents to feel confident and informed when it comes to protecting their furry companions from tick-borne illnesses.

Why Tick Prevention Is So Important

Ticks aren’t just a nuisance; they’re carriers of serious diseases that can affect both pets and humans. Conditions like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever can lead to long-term health complications if not detected and treated early.

Common Tick-Borne Illnesses in Pets

Lyme Disease

Transmitted by the black-legged tick (deer tick), Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. Symptoms in dogs may include:

• Fever

• Shifting leg lameness

• Swollen joints or lymph nodes

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

In severe cases, Lyme disease can lead to Lyme nephritis, a potentially fatal kidney condition.

Ehrlichiosis

Spread by the brown dog tick, this disease is caused by Ehrlichia bacteria. Symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Weight loss

• Nosebleeds

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Neurological issues in advanced stages

Anaplasmosis

Also transmitted by the black-legged tick, anaplasmosis can cause:

• Joint pain

• Fever

• Vomiting and diarrhea

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

This serious illness is transmitted by several tick species, including the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Symptoms may include:

• Poor appetite

• Muscle or joint pain

• Fever

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Swelling of the face or legs

• Difficulty walking

Tick-borne illnesses can take days or even weeks to show symptoms, making early detection and prevention essential.

Preventive Measures to Keep Your Pet Safe

Here are some simple but effective ways to reduce tick exposure:

• Talk to your primary care veterinarian about year-round tick preventatives. Options include topical treatments, oral medications, and tick collars.

• Check your pet for ticks after outdoor activities, especially around the ears, neck, and paws.

• Maintain your yard by mowing regularly, removing leaf litter, and creating a barrier between wooded areas and your lawn.

• Stick to clear paths and avoid tall grasses or dense brush during walks.

Preventatives not only protect your pet, but they also reduce the risk of ticks entering your home and potentially affecting humans.

What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you spot a tick on your pet:

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin.

2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking.

3. Clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water.

4. Dispose of the tick safely (e.g., in alcohol or a sealed bag).

5. Monitor your pet for signs of illness and contact your veterinarian if symptoms appear.

When to Seek Specialty or Urgent Care

If your pet begins showing signs of a tick-borne illness, such as fever, joint swelling, or sudden behavioral changes, contact your primary veterinarian. If they recommend specialty care such as Internal Medicine, diagnostics, or urgent care, Peak Veterinary Referral Center is here to help.

Our team offers advanced specialty services and urgent care by appointment, ensuring your pet receives timely and expert attention when it matters most.

Your Pet’s Health Is Our Priority

At Peak Veterinary Referral Center, we’re committed to supporting your pet’s health with compassionate, expert care. With the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can help keep your furry family members safe from ticks and the diseases they carry.