Ticks Are a Year-Round Risk in Our Area

When most people think about ticks, they picture deep woods or hiking trails—but the reality is much closer to home. In our local environment, deer ticks are present nearly year-round. Any time there isn’t snow covering the ground, ticks are active and looking for a host. That means your dog is at risk not just in summer—but in spring, fall, and even mild winter days.

Even more surprising?
Ticks don’t rely only on wildlife. They live in grass, soil, and leaf litter—meaning:

• Dogs in fenced yards are still exposed daily
• Suburban and residential areas are not tick-free zones
• Routine outdoor time = routine exposure

Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

Ticks can transmit several diseases that affect dogs in our region. The three most common ones we see include:

 

1. Lyme Disease

• Caused by bacteria transmitted through deer tick bites
• May not show immediate symptoms

Clinical signs may include:

• Limping or shifting leg lameness
• Joint swelling
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite

 

2. Anaplasmosis

• Another bacterial infection spread by deer ticks
• Often overlaps with Lyme disease in affected areas

Clinical signs may include:

• Fever
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Occasionally bruising or bleeding issues

 

3. Ehrlichia (Ehrlichiosis)

• Transmitted by ticks and can affect multiple body systems

Clinical signs may include:

• Fever
• Weight loss
• Low energy
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Bleeding disorders in more advanced cases

 

Treatment and Long-Term Considerations

The good news:
These diseases are treatable, especially when caught early.

However, it’s important for pet owners to understand:

• Some infections can linger in the body
• Dogs may experience flare-ups or recurrence of symptoms
• Long-term monitoring may be needed in certain cases

Early detection and consistent prevention are key to minimizing long-term health impacts.

Why Prevention Matters More Than Ever

Because ticks are:

• Active most of the year
• Found in everyday environments
• Capable of transmitting multiple diseases

Prevention isn’t seasonal—it’s essential.

Safe & Effective Tick Prevention Options

There are several highly effective and safe products available to protect your dog from ticks, fleas, and other parasites:

Oral Preventatives

• Bravecto (long-lasting chew)
• NexGard (monthly chew)
• Simparica Trio (monthly chew with added heartworm protection)

Topical / Wearable Option

• Seresto Collar (long-acting protection)

Benefits of Preventative Care

• Kills ticks before they can transmit disease
• Reduces flea infestations
• Provides peace of mind year-round

Your veterinary team can help you choose the best option based on your dog’s lifestyle and health needs.

Practical Tips to Reduce Tick Exposure

While prevention products are the most important defense, you can also:

• Check your dog for ticks after outdoor time
• Keep grass trimmed and yard debris cleared
• Avoid heavily wooded or brushy areas when possible
• Wash bedding regularly

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of Ticks

Ticks are a constant part of our environment—but tick-borne diseases don’t have to be.

With year-round awareness, consistent prevention, and early treatment, you can keep your dog safe, comfortable, and healthy.

If you have questions about tick prevention or notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or mobility, reach out to your veterinary team for guidance.

There is NO over the counter topical flea and tick preventative for deer ticks!  And they are the most important ones to prevent!