Ticks on the Rise: Precautions for Pet Owners This Season

LAGRANGE, Ind. — Reports of ticks are increasing as the season progresses. People have spotted multiple ticks on pets, and some have found them crawling on furniture after time spent outdoors. The American Dog Tick, Dermacentor variabilis, is among the most common species in the area, identifiable by its distinctive light and dark brown body.

Ticks have a complex life cycle, feeding on different hosts during various stages. Adults are most prevalent from mid-April to mid-July. Female ticks lay numerous eggs, and prefer habitats such as overgrown lots and hiking trails where they can latch onto unsuspecting animals or humans.

To reduce exposure to ticks, experts advise wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, and staying on established trails. Light-colored clothing helps in easily spotting ticks, and it’s recommended to tuck in shirts and pull socks over pant cuffs. Repellents containing DEET or permethrin are also encouraged.

Regularly checking pets after outings is crucial, especially in tall grass or wooded areas where ticks thrive. Veterinary guidance is important when choosing tick prevention products. Some treatments are more reliable than others, with those recommended by vets being the safest option.

While Lyme disease poses a significant risk, prevention methods can mitigate this. Regular use of veterinarian-approved tick prevention helps lower the risk on pets. “Common tick-borne diseases require 1-2 days of tick attachment for transmission, so effective prevention products can protect your pet,” said veterinary expert Lily Richards.

As tick populations rise, awareness and precautions will help keep pets and families safe during this active season.