Kids Get Lice… Dogs Get Ticks (Welcome to Spring!)

Let’s be honest—spring doesn’t just bring sunshine, longer days, and fresh air… it also brings the itch!

Right now, schools are dealing with lice outbreaks (if you know, you know), and while we’re busy checking our kids’ heads every night, our pets are dealing with their own version of the problem—ticks and fleas.

But here’s the difference… ticks aren’t just annoying. They can actually be dangerous.

So while you're doing those nightly head checks, it might be time to add a quick “tick check” to your routine too.

What Are Ticks & Why Should You Care?

Ticks are tiny parasites that attach to your pet and feed on their blood. As unpleasant as that sounds, the bigger concern is what they can carry.

Ticks are known to transmit illnesses like Lyme disease, which can affect both dogs and humans if left untreated.

The tricky part? They’re small, sneaky, and easy to miss. Especially in thick fur.

Where Dogs Pick Up Ticks

Ticks love warm weather and shady, grassy areas. Basically all the places our dogs love too.

Common spots include:

• Walking trails

• Tall grass

• Wooded areas

• Even your local neighbourhood park

Living and working in Mississauga, I see this every spring. It doesn’t take a hike in the forest, a simple walk can be enough.

How to Check Your Dog

The good news? A tick check only takes a minute.

After walks or outdoor play, do a quick scan, think of it as a cuddle with a purpose:

Check:

• Around the ears

• Under the collar

• Between the toes

• Under the legs (armpits)

• Belly area

If you feel a small bump, take a closer look—ticks can feel like a tiny pea on the skin.

What to Do If You Find a Tick

First—don’t panic. It happens!

Here’s what to do:

• Use tweezers or a tick remover

• Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible

• Pull straight out (don’t twist)

• Clean the area with soap and water

• Keep an eye on your dog for any changes

If you're ever unsure, your vet is always the best place to turn.

Prevention Tips

A little prevention goes a long way:

• Use vet-recommended tick prevention

• Avoid tall grass when possible

• Keep your dog well-groomed

• Do quick checks after every walk

Simple habits = big peace of mind.

A Little Extra Help Goes a Long Way

At the end of the day, ticks are just part of pet ownership—especially in the warmer months. But with a little awareness and a quick routine, they’re completely manageable.

And if your days are anything like mine (busy, full, and a bit chaotic) this is something I always keep an eye on during walks and visits.

Because every pet deserves to come home safe, comfortable, and cared for.

If you'd like help keeping your pet safe this spring, feel free to reach out anytime. Even something as small as a tick check can make a big difference.

Itchy Season is Here!