Dogs are significantly more likely to pick up ticks than humans. They walk through tall grass, explore wooded edges, and sniff through leaf litter — all prime tick habitat. And when they come inside, those ticks come with them.
On Long Island, where deer ticks carrying Lyme disease are prevalent, tick prevention for dogs isn't just about protecting your pet — it's about protecting your whole family.
Tick-Borne Diseases That Affect Dogs
Lyme disease: Causes joint pain, lameness, fever, and kidney problems in dogs. Long Island dogs are at high risk.
Anaplasmosis: Causes lethargy, joint pain, and loss of appetite. Transmitted by the same deer ticks that carry Lyme.
Ehrlichiosis: Can cause bleeding disorders and is transmitted by Lone Star ticks, increasingly common on Long Island.
Babesiosis: Attacks red blood cells. Can be fatal in severe cases.
A Layered Approach to Dog Tick Prevention
Veterinary tick prevention. Talk to your vet about oral or topical tick preventatives. Products like NexGard, Bravecto, and Simparica are highly effective. Use them year-round on Long Island — not just in summer.
Lyme vaccine. Ask your vet about the canine Lyme vaccine. It's recommended for dogs in high-risk areas like Long Island.
Daily tick checks. Run your hands over your dog's entire body after every outdoor excursion. Focus on the head, ears, neck, armpits, between toes, and around the tail.
Yard treatment. Professional perimeter treatment in your yard dramatically reduces the number of ticks your dog encounters at home. This protects both your dog and your family.
Create a safe zone. Keep a mowed, clear area around your home where your dog plays. Avoid letting dogs roam in tall grass or wooded edges during peak tick season.
How to Remove a Tick from Your Dog
Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out with steady pressure. Don't twist, squeeze, or burn the tick. Clean the area with antiseptic and monitor for signs of infection. If the tick was engorged (swollen), contact your vet about testing.
Is Professional Yard Treatment Safe for Dogs?
Yes. Professional treatments are applied to foliage and ground cover, not directly to open lawn areas. We recommend keeping pets off treated areas for 30 minutes until the product dries. After that, it's completely safe. We also offer all-natural botanical options for pet owners who prefer the most cautious approach.
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