Does My Dog Need a Tick Collar in the Winter?

Although you might associate the warmth of the summer with pests galore, from mosquitoes in your home to ticks all over your precious pooch, the winter isn't exactly exempt from nuisances itself. It's actually possible for canines to get ticks at any point during the year, including in the winter months.

  1. About Ticks

    • Ticks, like mites and fleas, are external parasites. They live off of the blood of their unsuspecting hosts, whether cats, dogs, birds or other animals. These wee arachnids usually get to dogs from contact through grass or undergrowth, where they lurk. Some signs that are frequently associated with ticks in pooches are skin inflammation and excessive scratching. Bites from ticks can also trigger unpleasant symptoms such as exhaustion, appetite loss and even fever. If you are worried that your dog might have ticks, call your veterinarian to make an appointment immediately. Ignoring ticks can be extremely risky to dogs, potentially leading to anything from anemia to death.

    Winter

    • Ticks are at their busiest in the warmer times of the year, beginning in the spring all the way into the autumn. However, dogs who live in warm climates do indeed have the possibility of getting ticks during the wintertime. It's not uncommon for ticks to become energized even after just a couple of unseasonably warm days. Winter ground temperatures that are higher than 45 degrees Fahrenheit allow for ticks.

    Tick Collars

    • If you reside in a warm part of the planet, it's both smart and practical to exercise year-round tick prevention. Talk to your veterinarian regarding prevention and control methods that are the most appropriate for your specific cutie, whether collars or topical solutions. Tick collars consist of chemicals that defend against the pesky creatures. These collars' protective abilities don't last forever, however, and it's crucial to switch to new ones regularly. Never remove your dog's "real" collar after putting the tick collar on -- keep them both on simultaneously.

    Susceptible Dogs

    • Note that ticks can show up on any dog. Never assume that ticks aren't a possibility in your pet, no matter where you live. Ticks inhabit places throughout the globe. However, they are especially prevalent in certain locations, such as the United States' northeastern region -- notably various forested landscapes.