Holy Ticks!

Ticks have been a growing issue in Nova Scotia over the years, and it does not look like it will be getting better any time soon. The situation is only getting worse over time, with instances of Lyme disease on the rise not only in people but in our pets as well. The American Dog Tick has been around for quite some time now, but we are starting to see an increase in the number of Deer Ticks (black-legged ticks). Which means our pets are at risk.

We spend a lot of time with our pets outside during the summer, and we should not only be checking them for ticks, but we need to make sure that they are on a quality flea and tick prevention from your veterinarian, and even vaccinating against Lyme disease as a second line of defence in case a dose of medication is missed. Remember they can bring them into your home and transfer them to you, and some types of ticks can infest your home.

Deer ticks or the black-Legged tick are the most concerning of the ticks in our area as they carry Lyme disease. Black-legged ticks thrive in a moist environment and can typically be found in wooded areas, leaf litter, long grass, shrubs, and in your local parks. They stay active when temperatures are above 4°C, and the larvae and nymphs are most active in the spring and summer. Make sure your pet has its tick prevention.

Is your area a tick an endemic tick area? Click here to find out!

Written by: Halifax Veterinary Hospital