When you’re shopping for parasite treatments, you may notice that ticks are always on the list of pests they prevent. Despite the fact that they present a clear danger to humans and animals alike, some people aren’t concerned about these tiny insects. Rumors often go around that ticks aren’t as dangerous as we’ve been led to believe. However, that’s not necessarily the case. Here are some of the most common tick myths and the truth behind them.
Only Dogs Can Get Ticks
Ticks aren’t picky about their hosts. They’ll hop onto any warm blooded creature that crosses their path. Any of these animals, including humans, can get ticks. It is more common to find them on furry medium to large animals like dogs and deer, but there’s always a chance they’ll infest a different host if one’s available.
Ticks are Only a Concern in Rural Areas
While ticks often emerge from wooded areas, they can be found in urban settings, as well. Any area with trees and grass can have ticks, even if the natural landscape is surrounded by buildings. Urbanization has led ticks to need to move into these areas to survive.
Ticks are Easily Visible and Can Be Easily Removed
If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot a tick on your pet and easily remove it. However, ticks don’t always gravitate toward easy-to-find spots. They’re seeking warm areas, which can often be found in furrier spots. They’re also tiny, so it’s important to thoroughly check your pet every time they go outside and can potentially be exposed to these parasites.
Ticks are Harmless and Do Not Transmit Diseases
The main concern pet owners should have about ticks is their ability to spread disease. In dogs, these diseases include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, bartonellosis and more. In cats, ticks can transmit Lyme disease, cytauxzoonosis, tularemia, and anaplasmosis, among other serious conditions.
Tick Prevention Measures are Unnecessary in Certain Seasons
While ticks may be more active during warmer parts of the year, they don’t simply go away in the winter. In fact, ticks often survive the harsh winter conditions by latching onto a host. No matter the time of year, it’s important to keep up with tick prevention and checking measures.
One of the best ways to keep ticks off your pets is by applying a monthly topical parasite prevention solution like Revolt Topical. Even if you’re up-to-date on your preventative medication, you should check your pets regularly to make sure they’re tick-free.
