6 Ways to Protect Your Dog From Ticks
Ticks are one of the biggest pest threats for our pets. These bloodsuckers live to latch onto a warm body, burrow in and feed on their host mercilessly. And it’s not just the gross factor we have be concerned about. Ticks pose a serious health concern for both dogs and people. A tick can carry a number of diseases including Lyme disease, which is why ticks are such a nuisance.
Adult ticks are most active from March to mid-May, and then young newborn ticks get active from mid-May all the way through mid-August. About that time adult ticks start roaming around more until November. But don’t think your animals are safe during winter. Ticks can survive just fine in low temperatures that remain above freezing.
Spring is when ticks start coming out of the woodwork, which is why the risk for getting bit increases in March. Head ticks off before they become a problem for your pooch by following the tips below.
Use Flea and Tick Medication
There are a number of flea and tick medications on the market. However, some are much more effective than others. Your veterinarian can provide some of the most potent tick preventing medications. Just be careful to follow the instructions exactly and never use a medication that’s made for a larger dog as it could be too strong. Medications include gel spot treatments, collars and monthly pills that can be taken orally to ward off pests.
Keep Your Dog Out of Wooded Areas
Ticks can be anywhere outside, but they are most commonly found in wooded areas. If you live in a wooded area take steps to limit your dog’s ability to roam. Ticks also like to lay low along garden walls, fences and at the edge of the woods. Whenever possible keep dogs at least three feet away from the perimeter of the yard.
Keep Your Yard Maintained
Ticks like to hang out in tall grasses, leaf piles and brush at ground level, waiting for a warm mammal to pass by. When there are fewer places to hide out there will be less ticks in your yard. Keep the grass mowed, rake up leaves, pull weeds, clear out dead plants and trim bushes so that people and animals don’t brush up against them when walking around the yard.
It’s also a good idea to limit ground cover plants, especially in areas where your dog likes to play. These types of plants are perfect for ticks because they like to stay at or near ground level, rarely climbing higher than two feet.
Dissuade Deer From Coming in Your Yard
Deer are beautiful, majestic creatures. But there’s a reason why Deer Ticks are called Deer Ticks. Avoid planting vegetation that attracts deer. If you live in a wooded area you may also want to consider putting up fencing that keeps deer from entering your yard.
Prevent Rodents From Roaming Around Your Property
Mice and rats are tick carriers. Ticks love latching on and feeding off of rodents, and traveling around with them wherever they go. If mice are roaming around your yard there is a higher chance that ticks are present too.
Schedule Regular Pest Control Treatments
Professional pest control treatments can help keep your yard free of bloodthirsty ticks. But keep in mind that consistency is important even in the winter. In Alabama where winters are relatively mild, ticks can survive outdoors all year long. Options like Vulcan Termite & Pest Control, Inc.’s monthly and quarterly pest control treatments keep you covered through all four seasons.
Even if you take all of the precautionary steps listed above, it’s still important to regularly groom and inspect your dog for ticks. Typically, Lyme disease and other infections aren’t transmitted for the first 24-48 hours so early detection is critical. If you do find a tick remove it immediately and contact your veterinarian.
Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/pest-safety/6-ways-protect-dog-ticks/