Ticks

Ticks can cause more chronic problems such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Lyme disease. The symptoms may be vague including lethargy, fever, headache, joint pain, and rashes and may not appear for days to weeks after the bite occurs. The tick should be removed as soon as possible because these infections usually do not occur if removal is within 24 hours.

Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible using tweezers. Constant gentle traction without any twisting motion should enable you to remove the tick. Do not use your fingers as this may spread the infection. Wash the affected area with mild soap after removal.

Tick born illnesses can be treated successfully with the use oral antibiotics once the diagnosis is made. There is no evidence to support the need for prophylactic antibiotics before any symptoms develop.

Pets may become ill after tick bites resulting in mild lethargy. You should consult your veterinarian if you have any reason to suspect that your pet may be experiencing a tick born illness.