Keep Your Dog Tick-Free on the Trails

Although your dog is more likely to encounter ticks during the summer and other warm months—when both pets and people spend more time outside—ticks can still be a problem throughout the year. Just as a tick bite can be dangerous for you, it can also expose your dog to serious tick-borne illnesses. Ticks are particularly active in warmer weather, so the risk of a bite increases significantly, especially during hikes.

The longer a tick stays attached, the higher the likelihood it will transmit a disease. Ticks and their bites can be difficult to spot, especially when they are in their early, smaller stages.

If you’re planning to hike with your dog, using a safe and effective tick-preventative medication can help reduce the risk of transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, tick paralysis, and anaplasmosis. Along with preventative treatment, knowing how to avoid ticks is a practical way to lower the risk of tick-borne illnesses.

Avoiding Ticks While Hiking

When hiking with your dog, it’s essential to remain alert and know what to watch for, particularly in areas known to harbor ticks—such as dense woodlands, swampy regions, or any damp, shaded locations.

When hiking with your dog, try to stick to the center of the trail to avoid taller grasses and dense vegetation. Ticks often wait on the tips of long grass, ready to latch onto anyone who passes by—whether that’s you or your pet.

“Even if your dog is on tick prevention, it’s still essential to perform a detailed tick check.”

After being outdoors, inspect your dog carefully for ticks and remove them as soon as possible to minimize irritation and the risk of infection. Keep in mind that ticks in their early stages are very small and can be easily overlooked, yet they still pose a risk of transmitting diseases. Consult your veterinarian to ensure you’re using a tick preventative that remains effective throughout the month.

Common Tick Hiding Spots on Dogs

Ticks can be difficult to find in a dog’s fur. Be sure to check these common tick hiding spots on your dog:

• Under the collar

• Beneath the tail

• Between the toes

• Under the legs

• Around the elbows

While completely avoiding ticks might be challenging in some hiking areas, following these preventive measures can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of tick bites and the diseases they may transmit.