With the arrival of warmer weather, parts of Ontario have been experiencing an earlier-than-usual tick season. This phenomenon has raised concerns among pet parents, as ticks pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of our furry companions. However, there are steps that pet parents can take to protect their beloved animals from these potentially harmful parasites. 

What Are Ticks?

Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of mammals, including humans, dogs, and cats. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. Therefore, preventing tick infestations is crucial for the health of both pets and humans. 

Protect Your Pets From Ticks

One of the most effective ways to protect pets from ticks is through tick preventatives. These products come in various forms, including spot-on treatments, oral medications, and collars, and they work by either repelling ticks or killing them upon contact. When used correctly and consistently, tick preventatives can significantly reduce the risk of ticks and the transmission of tick-borne diseases. 

Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services offers tick preventatives that are safe and effective for pets. These products are recommended by veterinary professionals and are available for purchase at our veterinary clinic. Click here to book an appointment with Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services. 

In addition to using tick preventatives, pet parents should also take proactive measures to reduce their pets’ exposure to ticks. This includes avoiding areas where ticks are commonly found, such as tall grass, wooded areas, and shrubbery, especially during peak tick season and maintaining a clean and well-kept environment that deters ticks from infesting your home and yard. Regularly mowing the lawn, removing leaf litter, and keeping outdoor areas free of debris where ticks may hide are all helpful steps 

Regularly grooming pets and inspecting their fur for ticks after outdoor activities can also help to detect and remove any ticks before they have a chance to attach and transmit diseases. Click here for more information on how to search for ticks on your pets and how to safely remove them.  

Additional Information

Visit Tick Talk Canada or Pets and Ticks to learn all about ticks and tick prevention for animals. Visit Canada.ca for tick prevention tips for humans.