Uptick in ticks as season begins

Central New York veterinarians say anyone who hasn't yet protected their pets against ticks should do so soon. The number of pets being bitten has jumped dramatically over the past two weeks.

Stack Veterinary Hospital has already seen about 25 cases of dogs and cats with ticks. The Mattydale Animal Hospital has about a dozen new cases each week.

Marcellus Roundree's dog Oreo is one of those not treated for ticks. "I'm walking my dog for the first time this year," Roundtree said while walking through Onondaga Lake Park. "Enjoying what sun we have left."

Vets, including Karen Leshkivich of the Mattydale Animal Hospital, say this isn't the season to wait. "It's going to be bad," she said. "It definitely will be worse than previous years because of the moisture and the heat we're now getting."

Veterinarians are predicting the conditions will conspire to create twice as many ticks this year than last.
Most vets recommend year-round protection against ticks, but at the very least your pet should be protected snow thaw to snow fall.

A dog's treatment may not be the same as a cat's, and both need to be cared for individually.
"Even if you use something for your dog and that cat is in the same household, it could be toxic to your cat," Leshkivich said.

Fortunately, Leshkivich adds, once-a-month treatment is easy. "Try to get under the fur, put it in several spots along the back.  So, that spreads all over the body for full body control," she advises.
And remember, all the chemicals in the world are no replacement for a thorough visual check. "Feel around their muzzle and around their ears because the ticks will get in and around the base of the ears," Leshkivich says.

Ticks carry many harmful diseases, including Lyme disease. Lyme disease can be easily contracted by humans as well.

If you do find a tick, vets say you should bring your pet in to have it removed. The animal may also need testing done to make sure it hasn't contracted any diseases.

Della Allen knows how important for every member of her family, two legged or four. "I have two little kids too," she said. "So, I don't need those bugs in my house."
Remember to check with your local veterinarian for the best treatment.


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