Health Risks, Tick-Borne Diseases, and Why Prevention Matters
Ticks are one of the most important disease-carrying parasites affecting dogs in the Northeastern United States. They are common, persistent, and increasingly active for much of the year due to mild winters and changing weather patterns.
Ticks don’t just cause irritation—they can transmit serious, sometimes long-lasting diseases. Many dogs exposed to ticks show no immediate signs, which is why prevention and routine screening are such an important part of veterinary care.
Why ticks are a serious concern
Ticks attach to the skin and feed on blood. During feeding, they can transmit bacteria and other organisms that cause disease. In some cases, transmission can occur within 24–48 hours of attachment.
Ticks can:
- Transmit serious infectious diseases
- Cause localized skin irritation or infection
- Trigger inflammation or immune-mediated illness
- Lead to chronic joint, kidney, or blood disorders
Because symptoms are often delayed or vague, tick-borne disease may go unnoticed without testing.
Common ticks in the Northeastern United States
Dogs in our region are most commonly exposed to:
- Blacklegged (deer) tick – primary carrier of Lyme disease
- American dog tick
- Brown dog tick
Ticks are found in:
- Tall grass and brush
- Wooded and leaf-covered areas
- Yards visited by wildlife (especially deer and rodents)
- Parks, trails, and even suburban neighborhoods
Ticks do not need deep woods—many exposures occur right at home.
Tick-borne diseases in dogs
Lyme Disease
One of the most common tick-borne diseases in the Northeast.
Possible signs include:
- Fever
- Lameness that may shift between legs
- Joint swelling or stiffness
- Lethargy and decreased appetite
Some dogs never show obvious symptoms but may develop kidney complications months or years later. Early detection and prevention are key.
Anaplasmosis
Often causes symptoms similar to Lyme disease.
Possible signs include:
- Fever
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Lethargy
- Low platelet counts, which may increase bleeding risk
Ehrlichiosis
Less common in our area but potentially serious.
Possible signs include:
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Bleeding or bruising
- Chronic illness if untreated
Why tick-borne disease can be hard to detect
- Symptoms may be mild or intermittent
- Signs can appear weeks to months after exposure
- Some dogs never show outward illness
- Clinical signs may resemble arthritis or other conditions
Because of this, veterinarians often recommend routine screening blood tests, especially for dogs living in high-risk regions like the Northeast.
Puppies and ticks
Puppies are especially vulnerable because:
- Their immune systems are still developing
- They explore environments close to the ground
- They may not show clear signs of illness
- Early disease can impact long-term health
Safe tick prevention can usually be started early, and we will recommend products appropriate for your puppy’s age and weight.
Checking your dog for ticks
Even with prevention, regular checks are important—especially after outdoor activity.
Pay close attention to:
- Ears and around the head
- Neck and collar area
- Armpits and groin
- Between toes
- Under the tail
If you find a tick and are unsure how long it has been attached, or if you’re uncomfortable removing it, please contact us.
Prevention: the most effective protection
Tick prevention:
- Kills or repels ticks before they can transmit disease
- Reduces the risk of infection
- Is far safer and easier than treating disease after exposure
Because ticks are active for much of the year in our region, year-round prevention is recommended for dogs of all ages.
Tick prevention options
Veterinary-recommended tick preventives:
- Are safe when used as directed
- Come in oral and topical forms
- May also protect against other parasites
- Are chosen based on your dog’s age, size, health, and lifestyle
Over-the-counter products may be less effective or outdated. We’re happy to help you choose the best option for your dog.
When to contact your veterinarian
Please contact Country Care Veterinary Center if your dog:
- Has a tick attached and you’re unsure how long it’s been there
- Develops limping, stiffness, fever, or lethargy
- Has changes in appetite or energy
- Needs help starting or maintaining tick prevention
- Is due for routine tick-borne disease screening
Our recommendation
We recommend year-round tick prevention for all dogs in the Northeastern United States, along with routine health screening. Preventing tick exposure is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your dog’s long-term health.
If you have questions about ticks, tick-borne diseases, or prevention options, please contact Country Care Veterinary Center. We’re here to help keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and protected.