With spring approaching it is time to be mindful of Ticks that are capable of transmitting multiple diseases. Ticks are most active between May and August, so now is the time to beware!

When I work in the yard, walk through the woods, or am in an area where ticks tend to lurk, (near marshy areas, woods, leaf piles, and the great outdoors) I take precautions to avoid the possibility of being bit. One of the best ways is to wear a white long sleeve shirt and long pants then tuck your shirt into your pants, and your pants into your socks. I also wear a hat and then use repellant on any other exposed skin.

As for our dogs, my calendar is marked monthly with a reminder when they need their tick repellant application. In addition, before letting them romp in the woods I spray them lightly with a tick and flea spray as this seems to keep the ticks from hitching a ride into the house before hopping off.

For more information on Ticks and prevention of Lyme disease there are several really great web sites. To learn more about personal protection go to: lyme.org/ticks/personal.html, for amazing facts about ticks check out lyme.org/ticks/facts.html, especially the Tick Pictures link, lyme.org/gallery/ticks.html. New York State also has information to help: Health.State.NY.US/diseases/communicable/lyme. For information on how to remove a tick should you get bit: Placervillevet.com/ticktools.htm. Check out these sites and have a Tick-free spring and summer.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas