American Dog Tick
Dermacentor variabilis, commonly known for spreading tularemia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), is also a major cause of tick paralysis. While this tick species is found across much of the United States, it is no longer present in the Rocky Mountains, where it was originally discovered, or in the Southwestern states.
Lone Star Tick
Amblyomma americanum, also known to spread diseases such as ehrlichiosis, tularemia, cytauxzoonosis, Heartland virus disease, rickettsiosis, and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), is primarily found in the south of the U.S. However, it can also appear in some northern areas. Its activity peaks from early spring through late fall.
Blacklegged (Deer) Tick
Ixodes scapularis, a tick known for transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and Powassan virus, is most commonly found in the eastern U.S. However, it has also been spotted as far south and west as Texas and South Dakota.
Brown Dog Tick
Rhipicephalus sanguineus is known to spread diseases like babesiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, canine hepatozoonosis, and anaplasmosis. While commonly found in southern states, it has the potential to spread to other regions. What makes this tick unique is its ability to infest homes and kennels.
Winter Tick
Dermacentor albipictus is most often found in wildlife such as moose, deer, and elk rather than in pets. It is not known to transmit diseases to humans or domestic animals. True to its name, this tick is most active in the fall and winter months and can be found across the United States, from coast to coast.
Gulf Coast Tick
Amblyomma maculatum is known to transmit diseases such as rickettsiosis and canine hepatozoonosis. Although primarily found along the Gulf Coast, this tick has been observed as far north as Ohio. Its peak activity typically occurs from late summer through early fall.
How To Protect Pets From Ticks
Ticks can be a severe threat to pets and their owners, so taking steps to keep them safe is essential. The most effective way to protect your pets is through preventive measures. Consulting your veterinarian to choose the right flea and tick medication is crucial for maintaining your pet's health.
Many tick prevention options, such as chewable tablets like Bravecto and Nexgard, collars like Seresto, or topical treatments like Frontline Plus, require several hours to start repelling and killing ticks. Therefore, if you're planning outdoor activities, it's essential to ensure your pet is protected well in advance.
Since ticks can be found throughout the country, veterinarians recommend year-round flea and tick prevention for dogs and cats, along with regular and thorough tick checks, to keep pets safe.
