Hello World

  Now that the cool air of autumn is upon us, we can comfortably spend more time outside. No more pesky bugs, right? Well, not really. “Although most people associate ticks with summer outdoor activities, adult black-legged ticks are more likely to be encountered in late fall and winter,” says Dr. Mark Horton, chief of the California Department of Public Health. Ticks are at their peak now and as the weather cools they will be even more plentiful. Since ticks may be carriers of Lyme disease and other parasite-borne illnesses and Pennsylvania now leads the nation in the total number of reported Lyme cases, it is important to take preventive measures for ourselves as well as our pets.               PEOPLE                                                                                   PETS Wear light colored clothing, long sleeves, pants            Avoid tall grasses or underbrush Tuck pants into socks                                                     Use a spot on product (Frontline or Advantix) Cover or braid long loose hair                                        Preventic collar Spray clothing with repellent Always check with your veterinarian for the best tick control product for your pet. Remember that exposing your pet to more than one type of treatment within a short period of time may be harmful. After you have been outside, it is important to check carefully for ticks. When coming in from outside activities where you might have encountered ticks: €¢ Throw clothing into the dryer set on high heat, this will ensure no ticks survive on your clothing €¢ Remember to do a tick check €¢ Take a shower and wash your hair For pets that go outdoors: €¢ Visually check them carefully when they return inside €¢ Designate specific sleeping areas for your pets €¢ Check their bedding routinely €¢ Vacuum bedding, carpets and furniture frequently €¢ Dispose of vacuum bag in an outdoor trash can However you choose to treat your pet, remember that it is always a good idea to comb through their head, neck , and ears where ticks are more likely to attach themselves.  If you find a tick, remove it quickly with a pair of  tweezers. Watch for symptoms like lethargy, joint soreness, or fever as they may be a sign of Lyme Disease. The fact that ticks are around should not deter you from enjoying the outdoors; however, you should be on the lookout for these sticky bugs.  It is easier to prevent a bite than to deal with its repercussions.