Ticks are here!
Can you believe that in 2024 so far, we have had 27 days where the temperature rose above 0 degrees Celsius? Ticks are now being seen year-round in Ottawa, while in previous years’ our main concern was during the warmer months. Due to the unpredictability of our winters, and the health risks associated with ticks we recommend year-round prevention.
The most commonly seen ticks in Ottawa and Ontario include deer ticks/black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis), American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis), brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), and lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum). Each of these species can carry various diseases and infections that can be harmful to pets and people alike. Of particular concern in our area is Lyme disease (caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi), which is carried and transmitted by deer ticks. Lyme disease can cause a host of symptoms ranging from fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, pain and more. Without prompt identification and treatment, it can also lead to long-term health problems such as kidney disease and neurologic problems. Other diseases transmitted by ticks that pose a risk to your pet include Erlichiosis, which can cause bleeding disorders, anemia and immune disorders, Anaplasmosis, which causes fever, weakness and anemia, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever which can cause severe illness leading to death.
We recommend specific medications to protect your pet from ticks and tickborne diseases. These medications are safe and effective. They include:
Bravecto - This chewable, flavoured tablet comes in either a once a month dosage, or a 12-week dosage. It provides tick coverage for dogs over the age of 6 months, and additionally treats and prevents fleas.
Bravecto Topical - Available for both dogs and cats, this topical medication is applied directly to the skin at the back of the neck. It can be used safely in dogs and cats over the age of 6 months.
Nexgard - This chewable, flavoured tablet is given monthly, and can be used safely in puppies once they reach the age of 8 weeks. It also treats and controls fleas.
Vitrecto - This topical medication for cats provides protection from ticks and fleas, and additional protection against heartworm, intestinal roundworm and hookworm. It is given every 2 months.
If there is a different medication that you are interested in using for your pet, please speak with your veterinarian. We are able to order in a number of different products.
We don’t recommend over-counter products that claim to treat ticks due to their lack of regulation and lack of studies supporting their efficacy. If you have any questions or concerns, we would be more than happy to speak with you!
