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The best way to combat Lyme disease (and other tick-borne diseases) is by understanding the risks associated with ticks and going on the offensive line. Don’t wait for tick-related problems to happen to you or your pet. With our 5 essential tick prevention tips, your pet can continue to enjoy good health.
High-Risk State
Almost all of the U.S. Lyme disease cases occur in New Jersey and 14 other states. When it comes to transmitting contagious and toxic disease, ticks only come in second place behind mosquitos.
Tip #1: Parasite Prevention Medication
There are three basic options that help pet owners mitigate tick attachment and disease transmission. These are:
- A tick collar snugly attached around a pet’s neck can repel ticks and stop them from attaching, but must be close enough to the skin to make a difference.
- Topical medications can be effective, but they won’t stop a tick from latching onto a pet. These will kill ticks after about 24-hours, but by then the Lyme disease bacteria could already be deposited in the pet’s blood stream.
- Chewable medications have a quick kill time, but they don’t stop ticks from attaching.
Tick preventive medications are generally safe for pets, but it is essential to use these products under the care of a veterinarian and only as directed.
Tip #2: Lyme Disease Vaccine
Despite its prevalence, Lyme disease only causes symptoms in 5-10% of all dogs diagnosed with the infection. If your dog’s lifestyle includes a great deal of outdoor recreation, the Lyme disease vaccine may be a good fit. It doesn’t bring the risk down to zero, but it can reduce the severity of symptoms, and works well in tandem with other tick preventives.
Tip #3: Check Every Day
As a way to reduce the time a tick needs to latch on and transmit borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme, check for ticks every day. Even on days that don’t include a long hike in the woods, this strategy is an excellent defense. Closely observe the feet, legs, abdomen, chest, armpits, groin, ears, and neck for known tick attachment sites.
Tip #4: Cleaning Up the Yard & Garden
Recognizing tick habitat is key. Clean up tall grass, leaf piles, compost bins, and wood stacks, and other places known to attract animals that ticks prey on (rodents, deer, birds, squirrels, etc.). If you treat the yard and garden with tick deterrents, be sure that your pet only accesses the areas after the products dry.
Tip #5: Look For Hitchhikers
Ticks are known to find their way inside homes by grabbing onto human shoes and clothing. Be sure that after any time spent outside, even in your own backyard or a city park, check socks, pant legs, backpacks, and even hats.
Always Here to Help
With our tips, we hope you and your pet can continue to enjoy all the wonderful summer moments in New Jersey. If you have questions or concerns, please call True Care Veterinary Hospital at (732) 677-2180.