In recent years, ticks have become a growing concern in Quebec. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pets safe.
What is a Tick?
A tick is a small, blood-sucking insect related to mites. Its body is oval-shaped and typically brown. Ticks vary in size depending on their life stage. Larvae and pupae are tiny (less than 1 mm), while adult ticks are 4-6 mm long and can swell up when they’ve fed on blood.
Where are Ticks Found?
Ticks have been spreading across Canada since the early 2000s, mainly due to global warming and migratory birds that carry ticks as they travel. In Quebec, the Montérégie region is most affected, though ticks can now be found in many areas, including urban neighborhoods.
How Do Ticks Feed?
Ticks feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Dogs, cats, and even ferrets can become targets. Ticks usually attach to a host by clinging to bushes or grass, and when a pet passes by, they grab on and start crawling to find a feeding spot. They most commonly attach around the animal’s head, neck, and back. Once attached, the tick uses its mouthparts to pierce the skin and begin feeding.
Are Tick Bites Dangerous for My Pet?
Yes, tick bites can be very dangerous. Some ticks carry infections that can lead to serious diseases, the most well-known being Lyme disease. Other tick-borne diseases can also affect your pet’s health and are often poorly understood.
What to Do if You Find a Tick on Your Pet
The sooner you remove the tick, the better. Ticks can transmit infections within hours of attachment. Here’s how to safely remove a tick:
- Use a small plastic hook (available at most veterinary clinics) to remove the tick.
- Gently place the hook around the tick where it attaches to the skin
- Twist the hook counterclockwise until the tick detaches (usually within 2-3 turns).
- Disinfect the bite area.
Wear gloves when removing a tick to avoid contact with infectious particles. Never pull the tick off by hand, as this can leave mouthparts embedded in your pet’s skin, causing inflammation or infection.
How to Prevent Ticks
The best way to protect your pet from ticks is through preventive treatments. These come in various forms, including tablets, spot-on liquids, and tick collars. Some tick treatments also protect against other parasites like fleas, mites, and intestinal worms.
In Quebec, tick season typically runs from March to December. Ask your veterinarian about the most appropriate prevention for your pet!