Ticks can transmit a variety of serious diseases, making them dangerous to both humans and pets. Our San Mateo veterinarians explain how these external parasites thrive in this post, as well as the warning signs to look for and how to keep ticks away from your pets and family.
What are ticks?
Ticks are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of both animals and people. They can't fly or jump, so they rely on hosts for transportation (wild animals are usually the ones who bring ticks onto your property). Pets frequently become hosts once they arrive on your property, and parasites are then brought into your home.
Are ticks dangerous?
Ticks are dangerous to both people and pets because they spread a variety of serious diseases. When the tick's saliva, which contains germs and bacteria, enters the bloodstream, it can cause serious illnesses like Lyme disease.
What do ticks look like in San Mateo?
The black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick) is one of the most common tick species found in San Mateo and has the dubious distinction of being the species responsible for most cases of Lyme disease in our state. It's joined by the Rocky Mountain Wood tick, the American dog tick, and the brown dog tick.
The black-legged tick is found in wooded, bushy areas and both males and females have flat, oval bodies. While female deer ticks' bodies are about 1/8" in size and orangish-brown (with a reddish-brown colored abdomen that becomes darker after feeding on a host), male deer ticks are roughly 1/16" and reddish-brown overall. They are longer than they are wide, and have sharply pointed, toothed mouthparts you can see clearly from above. Though tick exposure may occur year-round, they are most active during warmer months (April to September).
How do I check my pet for ticks?
Check your dog for ticks after even a short walk through the bush and grass. Deep within your pet's fur, behind and inside the ears, between the legs, around the neck, and between the toes are all places to look.
How do I get rid of or prevent ticks?
Ticks on small pets and dogs can be eliminated and prevented using a variety of techniques. Spot-on treatments, oral medications, tick collars, and even bathing your pet with a shampoo containing medicated ingredients to kill ticks on contact are all options. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for you and your pet.
To help keep ticks away from your yard, it's a good idea to keep your lawn well-trimmed. This will give ticks fewer areas to live and breed, reducing the risk of ticks being around. At the height of tick season, you'll also want to limit the amount of time your pet spends outside.