Tick season officially arrives in Massachusetts. Here's how to keep you and your pets safe
As the weather warms up, pet owners in Massachusetts are being reminded that tick season is officially here.
Dr. Dylan Grayson, a veterinarian at Boston Veterinary Clinic in Brookline, said he's seeing an uptick in calls from concerned pet owners.
Increase in calls about ticks
"This time of year is the time that we get more calls about, 'Oh, I found a tick on my dog in the first place,'" said Grayson.
Ticks are most active when the temperature rises above 40 degrees, according to Grayson. He said the solution to avoiding tick infestations on your pets is simple. He recommends a regular routine of flea, heartworm, and tick prevention treatments for all dogs and cats.
In New England, tick-borne diseases are more prevalent than in many other parts of the country, mainly due to the region's unique ecosystem. Ticks don't fly but attach themselves to animals or humans as they pass by.
"New England is really tick disease central, so keeping a close eye on everything's really important," said Grayson.
Pet owners should be on the lookout for symptoms of tick-borne diseases, including fatigue and joint pain.
Ticks also affect humans
It is also important to remember that ticks can also affect humans and spread illnesses like Lyme Disease. Officials advise avoiding wooded areas with high grass and leaf litter. They also recommend always checking yourself and children after an extended amount of time outdoors and making sure you wear long sleeves and pants.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health recommends people contact their doctor if they're bitten by a tick and develop a rash and other symptoms like a fever, headache or sore muscles.
