Protect Your Pets From Deadly Tick-Borne Diseases This Summer

As the summer sun warms the days and invites us—and our pets—into the great outdoors, there’s a tiny, dangerous threat lurking in tall grass, wooded trails, and even your backyard: ticks. These tiny parasites may be small, but they carry big risks, especially when it comes to the health of your beloved furry companions.

Tick-borne diseases are on the rise, and summer is their peak season. Understanding how to prevent them is crucial for keeping your pets safe, healthy, and happy.

🐾 What Are Tick-Borne Diseases?

Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that latch onto animals (and humans) and can transmit a number of dangerous diseases. Some of the most common and potentially deadly tick-borne illnesses that affect dogs and cats include:

• Lyme Disease – Can cause fever, joint swelling, and kidney issues in dogs.

• Ehrlichiosis – Affects white blood cells and may lead to lethargy, bleeding, and eye problems.

• Anaplasmosis – Causes fever, muscle pain, and neurological symptoms.

• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – A fast-acting illness that can be fatal if untreated.

• Cytauxzoonosis – A deadly parasitic disease found in cats, particularly in the South and Southeast U.S.

🕷️ How Do Pets Get Ticks?

Ticks usually wait in tall grass or bushes and attach themselves to any warm-blooded animal that brushes by. They’re incredibly good at hiding in fur, especially around the ears, neck, underbelly, and between the toes. Once attached, a tick can feed for several days—transmitting bacteria or parasites into your pet’s bloodstream.

🚨 Signs Your Pet May Have a Tick-Borne Illness

Sometimes the symptoms are subtle, especially early on. Watch out for:

• Unusual tiredness or weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Swollen joints or lameness

• Fever

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Sudden changes in behavior

If your pet displays any of these signs, especially after time outdoors, get them checked by a veterinarian.

🛡️ How to Protect Your Pets

Prevention is your best defense! Here’s how to keep your pets tick-free this summer:

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