Tiny Terrors: Why Tick Season is No Joke for Your Dog (or You)

Spring has officially arrived, dispute the recent weather, and when the warmer weather actually does come…we see longer walks, lush trails, and unfortunately, tick season. As Canadians shed their winter layers and head outside with their dogs, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Ticks aren’t just a nuisance, they’re a legitimate health threat to both dogs and humans. And with tick populations rising across Canada, the risk is no longer limited to wooded trails or camping trips. Even city parks and backyards can be tick hotspots.

For dog owners, knowing how to protect your pup (and yourself) is essential.

Why Are Ticks Dangerous for Dogs?

Ticks may be small, but the diseases they carry are anything but. The most commonly known threat is Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which ticks can transmit to dogs (and humans) through a single bite.

Symptoms in dogs include:

• Fever

• Joint pain or limping

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• In severe cases, kidney damage

Other tick-borne diseases include Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Babesiosis, all of which can impact your dog’s health if left untreated.

Can Dogs Bring Ticks Home to Humans?

Absolutely! And it’s more common than most pet parents think. A tick can latch onto your dog during a walk, hide under their collar or in their fur, and then drop off in your home or crawl onto you.

While your pup may be the original host, humans are just as vulnerable to tick-borne illnesses. That’s why regular checks after walks, especially in wooded or grassy areas… are a must. Many experienced dog walkers are pros at checking for ticks during post-walk grooming or belly rubs. That simple check could prevent a big health scare. (Yes, we check )

How to Safely Remove a Tick

If you find a tick on your dog, don’t pani , but act quickly and correctly. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool.

2. Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible.

3. Pull upward slowly and steadily - no twisting or jerking.

4. Place the tick in a sealed bag or container if you plan to show your vet.

5. Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

What NOT to Do When Removing a Tick

• Don’t burn it with a match

• Don’t try to suffocate it with petroleum jelly or oils

• Don’t squeeze the tick’s body

All of these increase the chance of infection or leaving parts of the tick behind.

Tick Prevention: How to Protect Your Pup

• Veterinary Tick Preventatives (oral, topical, or collars)

• Avoid Tick Hotspots: Tall grass, dense brush, overgrown trails

• Regular Tick Checks: After every walk - behind ears, under collar, between toes, around tail

• Grooming and Trimming: Keep long-haired dogs brushed and trimmed

• Yard Maintenance: Short grass, clean leaf piles, and barrier zones like gravel

• Dog walkers are often the first line of defence, especially when they check for ticks as part of their post-walk routine. (We do at Barks and Parks)

Are Some Dogs More Likely to Get Ticks?

Yes. Long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers, Sheepdogs, or Bernese Mountain Dogs make perfect hiding spots for ticks. Dogs that love water or the woods are also at greater risk due to their exposure.

But regardless of breed, any dog can get ticks…..especially during peak tick season in Canada, which typically runs from spring through fall.

Final Thoughts

Tick season isn’t something to fear — it’s something to prepare for. With a mix of awareness, prevention, and proper technique, you can enjoy the outdoors safely with your pup. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend hike or your favourite dog walker is taking your pup to the dog park, a little vigilance goes a long way.

And remember: if you’re ever unsure whether a tick has been removed fully or your dog starts showing unusual symptoms, don’t wait — call your vet.

Reach out if you have questions, we are here to help.