Let's Talk About Ticks

In the past week, I have found two ticks on my own body and three on three different dogs. We live in a highly tick-prone area, and this year, tick season is predicted to be worse than ever, so if you and your dogs are spending time outdoors, you need to be tick-savvy.



There are tons of different kinds of ticks. They live in grasses and foliage, and while they do not fly or jump, they grab onto fur and clothing as you walk through. This means your shoes, socks, and legs, the first point of contact, as are your dogs' paws, legs and bellies.

Using Flea & Tick Prevention

We use the chewable NexGuard tablets and have found them to be far more effective than topical options. Koa enjoys the taste of the tablet, while Mooch has to be persuaded to eat it using peanut butter or cheese, however - no option is 100% guaranteed. Even if your dogs (or cats!) are up to date on flea and tick prevention, it's super important to inspect them for ticks regularly, especially after a hike or playing in tick-prone areas.

Deet is a reliable way to ward ticks off of yourself, but there are also many essential oils that will repel insects, as well. Click here for a natural bug spray recipe you can make at home!

Inspecting for Ticks

Vulnerable areas for dogs include the ears, the under belly, the armpits and chin. When inspecting humans, it's a good idea to enlist the help of a family member, and/or make sure to do so somewhere with a mirror, where you can see your entire body. I recently found a tick on my scalp! (So gross.)

Removing Ticks

It is important to remove ticks as SOON as you find them! Some tick-borne diseases, like Lyme, can take up to a day to transmit, so early removal is key. Using a pair of tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and in one movement, pull straight up. Do not  twist, as this can cause the head to pop off. Removing the entire tick is key - a head left in the skin can cause infection. If the entire tick is not removed, it's a good idea to see a doctor or vet.

You can tell how long the tick has been there by how engorged it is. An engorged tick is more dangerous than one that has just clamped on. You can save the tick by sealing it up and placing it in the freezer, in case it needs to be tested by a doctor or vet if other symptoms appear.

You should visit a doctor or vet if the tick bitten area develops a rash, becomes swollen, or begins to ooze. Any flu like symptoms like fever or chills should also result in a medical examination.

Keep in mind that while ticks cannot swim, they can survive in water for some duration, so bathing yourself or your pets after exposure is not a sure-fire way to be rid of these pests.