Ticks Pose Risk To Your Dog, Lakewood Animal Safety Board Says

LAKEWOOD, OH — Tick activity is increasing in Northeast Ohio and the little critters could pose a big threat to both your dogs and you.

More ticks are being spotted locally and cases of Lyme disease are increasing in Ohio, according to the Lakewood Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board. American dog ticks, black-legged ticks and lone star ticks are all common in Ohio, according to the state's department of natural resources.

Ticks commonly carry Lyme disease, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources said.

"Pets and people alike can be susceptible to this infection, and since ticks are usually visible to the naked eye, it is important to regularly check for any unwelcome strangers, especially if you’ve been out in any wooded, brushy, or grassy areas," the board said.

Lakewood pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about flea and tick prevention and discuss having their pet vaccinated against Lyme disease. The best way to prevent your dog from becoming infected, however, is to prevent tick bites from occurring.

Here are tips for preventing tick bites, from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources:

• Know where ticks hang out — Black-legged ticks tend to be found in wooded areas, while dog ticks loiter in grassy areas and near road edges.
• Use anti-tick products on pets, as directed.
• Create a tick-safe zone in your yard.

"If you are bitten by a tick, do not panic. Carefully remove the tick, including its mouthparts, from your skin using tweezers. Monitor your health the following days. While the CDC recognizes a 36-48 hr. window is needed for disease transmission, there is evidence that transmission can occur sooner," ODNR said.