Ticks – Still Here!

I just want to say a few words about TICKS!  Yes, those ugly, nasty little critters that attach to our beloved pets (often without us even knowing it) and sometimes spreading life-threatening illnesses.

You may think that winter means your dogs are safe from these pesky blood-suckers, but NOT TRUE!  NJ winters don’t offer the steady deep freeze necessary to keep them away all winter.  This past Saturday, after 3 days of cold weather and a little snow storm I found a nasty little tick on my beloved Ronan’s eyebrow!  He was only outside for brief periods to do his business (why would he want to be outside? He was able to romp around inside my brother’s house with 2 other dogs for days over the Thanksgiving holiday!)

Although it wasn’t a deer tick it’s always unnerving as other varieties carry ugly diseases as well. Ronan’s coat is mostly black, which means I am at a disadvantage for easily finding them.

Please, please, PLEASE don’t let your guard down just because it’s winter.  Diligently check your dogs (and cats) regularly.  Talk to your vet about which tick prevention options are best for your furry friend and get a tick remover (see picture)!  It’s one of the handiest gadgets to have nearby at all times (mine is on my key chain!).