Tick Season is Here: What Philly Dog Owners Need to Know This Spring

First, a funny tick story: Lindsay, co-founder of The Monster Minders, is a Kiwi and grew up in New Zealand. When we first moved back to Philadelphia, I came home one evening to find him in a panic. He pulled me into the bathroom and pointed to a pint glass in the shower that was trapping a tick. He exclaimed, "WHAT. IS. THAT? It was IN MY SCALP!" Lindsay had just experienced his first tick encounter, and it was alarming. Tick-free living is one of the benefits of life in New Zealand.

Ticks are super tiny, but massively gross!

They're just so gross and creepy, right? Even when you know what they are! And maybe more so when you understand how dangerous they can be. Of course, just when we start spending more time outdoors with our dogs, tick season in Philadelphia kicks into high gear. Spring is one of the most active times for ticks. This also means that it’s one of the riskiest for our dogs. At The Monster Minders, we’re all about keeping your pups happy and healthy. Here’s what every dog owner (and Lindsay) should know about ticks this season.

The Importance of Awareness in Tick Season

As we approach spring, dog owners must be aware of the rising tick population. Ticks are not just a nuisance; they pose serious health risks to our pets. Understanding why spring is such a prime tick season can help us take preventative measures.

1. Why Spring Is Prime Tick Season

Ticks thrive in warm, humid environments. Spring’s combination of moisture and warmth creates perfect conditions for their population to explode. They’re especially common in grassy areas, wooded trails, and even city parks—places that Philly dogs love to explore. Don't think that because we live in a city, we get a pass from the tick threat. Unfortunately, city dog owners must also be vigilant about ticks.

2. Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

In our region, ticks can carry several diseases, including:

• Lyme Disease – Caused by the Borrelia bacteria, Lyme disease can lead to fever, lameness, swollen joints, and lethargy. Untreated, it can cause serious kidney and neurological issues.

• Ehrlichiosis – This disease attacks a dog’s white blood cells and may cause symptoms like fever, bruising, weight loss, or eye problems. In severe cases, it can lead to long-term immune complications.

• Anaplasmosis – Similar to Lyme disease, this condition is spread by deer ticks and often causes joint pain, fever, and low appetite. Some dogs may also experience neurological signs like stiffness or confusion.

  
  

Symptoms of these diseases can include fatigue, joint pain, fever, and appetite loss. These often take weeks to appear, so early prevention is essential.

3. How to Check Your Dog for Ticks

After walks and outings, do a quick check on your dog. Use your fingers to feel for small bumps and part the fur to check thoroughly. Make sure to inspect:

• Behind and inside the ears

• Around the eyes and mouth

• Under the collar

• Between the toes

• Around the tail and groin area

  
  

4. Preventing Ticks on Walks

While you can't avoid all ticks, even in the city, here are some tips to minimize exposure:

• Stick to clear, well-maintained trails.

• Avoid fields with tall grasses.

• Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives.

• Consider using light-colored harnesses or bandanas, as they make spotting ticks easier.

  
  

5. What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you find a tick, it’s easy to panic. However, staying calm is crucial. Thorough and careful removal is your #1 goal.

• Take a deep breath: It's easy to panic if you discover one, but stay focused.

• Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers: Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible. Avoid squeezing the body, which can push harmful bacteria into the bite site.

• Pull Straight Out: Gently and steadily pull the tick out in a straight motion—no twisting. Twisting can cause the tick’s head to break off and remain in the skin, which may lead to infection.

• Check the Bite Site: After removal, inspect the area. If you see parts left behind or if the area becomes red or swollen, contact your vet. Avoid digging around to remove any remaining pieces; let a vet handle it if needed.

• Clean the Area: Disinfect the bite site with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. It's essential to wash your hands thoroughly after the procedure.

• Save the Tick (Optional): Place the tick in a sealed container or plastic bag with a date label in case your vet wants to test it. This can help identify what diseases your dog might have been exposed to.

  
  

• Watch for Symptoms: Over the next few weeks, monitor your dog for any signs of illness such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, joint pain, or unusual behavior. If anything seems off, schedule a vet visit promptly.

  
  

Grasp close to the skin, not just the body.

Conclusion: Staying One Step Ahead

As a dog owner, it's likely you will encounter a tick on your pet at some point. Even with vet-approved preventative measures and regular checks, this reality remains for Philadelphia dog lovers. Knowing what to do if you find one and how to remove ticks is key to keeping your pup safe this year. Awareness and preparation are essential in ensuring a happy and healthy outdoor experience for both you and your dog this tick season.