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Animal Control Corner

Weston's Animal Control Officer Karen O'Reilly has posted helpful tips, FAQs, and other items of interest regarding Weston's wildlife, farm animals, and house pets.

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Jun 29

Ticks...The Downside to Summer

Posted on June 29, 2018 at 10:32 AM by Kara Fleming

Summer is a time for barbecues, swimming pools, and blue skies…but there is a downside, too – ticks! 

Ticks can carry diseases, such as Lyme disease. Precautions should be taken to prevent bites to yourself and your pets while enjoying the great outdoors. Here are a few tips you might try:
  • Stay on marked trails while hiking and avoid tall grasses and wooded areas. That is their natural habitat and where they will most likely be waiting for a snack to walk by.
  • Tuck your pants into your sock and wear long sleeves. Clothing can be a protective barrier against tick bites.
  • Discuss using products such as Deet for yourself and Primetherin for your clothes to deter ticks. Be sure to weigh the risks/benefits of these products and use as directed. Also, don’t forget to ask your veterinarian about flea and tick prevention for pets, too.
  • Check yourself and your pets for ticks after being outside. Properly remove any ticks found embedded. The sooner ticks are removed, it greatly reduces the risk of infection.
Enjoy the warm weather and stay safe!