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:
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Lyme Disease – Can cause fever, joint swelling, and kidney issues in dogs.
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Ehrlichiosis – Affects white blood cells and may lead to lethargy, bleeding, and eye problems.
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Anaplasmosis – Causes fever, muscle pain, and neurological symptoms.
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Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – A fast-acting illness that can be fatal if untreated.
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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:
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Unusual tiredness or weakness
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Loss of appetite
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Swollen joints or lameness
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Fever
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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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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