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As tick bites surge nationwide, veterinarians say most cases start with pets
WLOS • • health
Key Points:
- Local veterinarians in Asheville report an increase in pets suffering from tick-related illnesses due to hot, humid weather that favors tick activity.
- Dr. Jennifer Sim of VEG ER highlights that pets often bring ticks into homes, raising the risk of tick-borne diseases for both animals and humans.
- The CDC notes a nationwide rise in tick bites, with emergency room visits at a near-decade high and an estimated 31 million Americans bitten annually.
- Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses in pets vary from mild lethargy and fever to severe issues affecting blood, kidneys, liver, or heart, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prevention.
- Effective tick prevention methods include modern treatments like spot-on applications and collars, along with thorough pet checks after outdoor activities, focusing on typical tick hiding spots.
