As spring warms up, the number of blacklegged ticks is skyrocketing, leading to alarmingly higher risks of vector-borne diseases like Lyme and anaplasmosis in both humans and our beloved canine companions. Reports from Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health reveal the concerning expansion of tick populations in local areas such as Starkey Hill and Rockwood Conservation Areas.

Dr. Katie Clow, an expert in vector-borne and zoonotic diseases from the Ontario Veterinary College, emphasizes that while dogs can experience symptoms such as fever and appetite loss when infected with Lyme disease, they don’t exhibit the telltale bullseye rash common in humans. Instead, dogs may show unusual lameness, limping from one leg to another. In rare cases, Lyme disease can even lead to severe kidney failure.

The emergence of anaplasmosis, though less prevalent, is becoming more common as well. Symptoms typically involve fever and loss of appetite, and this disease can also impact the dog's white blood cell count. A recent public health report outlines a significant uptick in Lyme disease and anaplasmosis cases among dogs in the area.

It’s crucial to understand that a positive test for these diseases indicates exposure and subsequent antibody production, not necessarily illness. Dr. Clow clarifies, “The vast majority of dogs don’t get sick.” Therefore, while a positive test might cause concern, it merely signifies that the dog has been exposed to the bacteria, not that it is currently sick.

Given that these antibodies can remain in a dog's system for years, dogs can test positive long after the exposure, which makes interpretation of these tests complex. Regular vet checkups usually include tests for Lyme disease, but these tests can also indicate exposure to other diseases like heartworm.

Interestingly, the blacklegged ticks, which transmit Lyme and anaplasmosis, have been creeping into new territories in Ontario over the past decade, adapting to extended warmer seasons. “Historically, we didn’t find these ticks in Guelph, but that’s rapidly changing,” Dr. Clow explains, detailing how local tick populations are thriving in suitable environments.

Ticks are not just confined to the summer months either; they are active anytime temperatures exceed freezing, and they prefer overgrown, naturalized habitats over manicured lawns. The shifting climate and expanding tick populations present a heightened risk to pets and humans alike.

So, what can dog owners do to ensure their furry friends remain safe from ticks this season?

Take action now! There are effective veterinary products designed to kill ticks as they bite, preventing the transmission of harmful bacteria. Other products function as repellents, keeping ticks at bay entirely. Timing is vital, as many pet owners mistakenly believe that ticks are most active only in summer; in reality, they pose a greater risk during the spring and fall.

To minimize exposure, Dr. Clow recommends avoiding off-leash walking in dense brush and sticking to groomed trails during these seasons. Always check your dog for ticks after outdoor adventures, especially around their head, ears, and legs, where ticks often latch on.

In the event of a tick bite, it’s essential to carefully remove the tick without burning it or ripping it out, and take a picture to send to etick.ca for identification. Not all ticks pose a significant health risk, but identifying the species can provide vital information. Following up with your veterinarian and monitoring for emerging symptoms is a prudent step.

With the right precautions and a little diligence, you can keep your dog safe from the changing landscape of ticks and the diseases they carry! Don’t wait; take action today to protect your furry family members!