Fall Ticks

Brought to you by Peterborough West Animal Hospital:

While many pet owners assume the threat of ticks vanishes when summer ends, fall ticks on dogs and cats remain a serious concern. As temperatures drop, these resilient parasites continue to seek warm-blooded hosts, which means your pets are still at risk. Certain tick species, such as the blacklegged tick, thrive in leaf litter and wooded areas during autumn, waiting to attach themselves to any passing animal. Once latched onto a dog or cat, ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, or ehrlichiosis. To lower the odds of infection, it’s crucial to check your pet’s coat regularly, monitor their behavior, and consult a veterinarian about preventive measures. Evidence suggests that year-round tick protection can help reduce the risk of disease. By understanding and staying vigilant, you can protect your furry companions from fall ticks and ensure they remain healthy and comfortable throughout the cooler months. Stay alert this season.

Fall means an increase in the pesky pests!

Beautiful fall days are meant to be enjoyed – go ahead take your dog out and enjoy the great outdoors. However, it’s important to be aware of various autumn hazards that can affect your pet. For a comprehensive guide on keeping your pet safe during this season, check out our article on Fall Dangers and Your Pet.

Remember though, your dog isn’t the only one who’s happy to be out in the cooler weather. This rise in fall ticks on dogs and cats poses a significant threat, as these pests can transmit Lyme disease. Fortunately, you can take steps to safeguard your pets from these harmful ticks.

Vaccinations: If you pet is going to be in an area where ticks are endemic, there is a vaccine to prevent your dog from contracting Lyme disease. Discuss this with our veterinarians. Lyme disease is not the only disease ticks can carry. To ensure your pet is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations and preventive care, consider our Veterinary Wellness & Pet Vaccinations service, where we can provide comprehensive protection against various diseases, including those transmitted by ticks.

Tick Repellant Products: Because ticks can host a variety of diseases, your pup requires protection. At Peterborough West Animal Hospital we can help you with choosing the proper tick protection product. Because of potential of adverse interactions, please consult us before applying any product to your pet. It is crucial to note that the dog tick repellants must never to be applied to cats – they are toxic to them!

Careful Monitoring: The final step in protecting your family (furry and other) is checking your dog regularly. If you do find a tick, remove it and bring it to us for identification. Peterborough West Animal Hospital carries the “Tick Twister” that is designed to remove ticks – even those that are already attached to your pet – carefully and as hygienically as possible.

Tick Twister Method

https://www.otom.com/how-to-remove-a-tick

Plain Tweezer Method

Fall Ticks on Dogs and Cats: Risks and Prevention in 2025

Can tick eggs live on dogs?

Tick eggs rarely remain on dogs. Female ticks generally drop off to lay eggs in protected areas such as tall grass or leaf litter. However, if adult ticks stay attached for a while, there’s a possibility that eggs might develop on or near the dog’s coat. Routine checks for ticks are recommended to prevent attachment and disease transmission, including Lyme disease. Vaccinations and veterinarian-approved tick repellants can provide added protection. Thorough removal with tools like a tick twister is advised to avoid infection. Examining the dog’s coat after outdoor activities helps detect new tick bites and reduces the chance of further spread.

What additional treatments might be needed for international travel?

Depending on the destination, dogs may require specific vaccinations that extend beyond standard protocols, including boosted rabies immunizations or additional coverage for diseases not commonly encountered at home. Veterinary professionals can advise on region-specific parasite preventatives, especially for areas with higher tick prevalence. Thorough tick control measures, such as approved repellants or monthly preventatives, are often recommended due to exposure risks. Blood tests, health certificates, and microchipping might also be mandated by international regulations. Comprehensive protection against Lyme disease and ongoing tick checks help maintain safety throughout travel and minimize disease transmission risks.

Can ticks survive winter/indoor conditions?

Ticks can handle moderate winter temperatures by seeking shelter beneath leaf litter or logs. Some species remain active when temperatures hover above freezing, which explains their presence throughout fall and early spring. Indoor environments can also provide suitable hiding places if a tick hitches a ride on a host, though dry conditions may limit their survival. Year-round vigilance, including regular tick checks and veterinarian-approved prevention, helps guard against Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Thorough removal with specialized tools further reduces potential risks, ensuring pets and households remain safer during colder months.

What should you do about tick prevention in your yard?

Thorough yard maintenance helps keep ticks at bay. Short grass, trimmed shrubs, and cleared leaf litter create a less inviting habitat. Natural barriers, such as wood chips or gravel, can also discourage ticks from crossing into frequently used spaces. A veterinarian-approved yard treatment may reduce tick populations further. Checking pets after they play outside remains an integral step; any attached ticks should be removed promptly with tools like the Tick Twister. This combined approach reduces the likelihood of tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease. Finally, ensure dogs are protected with recommended vaccinations and preventatives for added safety.

What are the different types of ticks?

There are multiple tick species encountered across the U.S., including the black-legged tick (commonly known as the deer tick), the American dog tick, the brown dog tick, and the Lone Star tick. These species can vary in size, color, and preferred habitats, yet each poses a risk of transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Some thrive in wooded or grassy areas, while others adapt to warmer indoor environments. Year-round prevention, including routine checks and veterinarian-approved repellents, helps reduce the likelihood of tick-borne illnesses. Vaccinations and timely removal also minimize the risk of infection for both pets and families.

Reach out to your trusted local animal hospital in Peterborough, ON! for all your concerns about fall ticks on dogs and cats.