Tick Season Is Here: How to Protect Your Dog in Marin
Marin County is a paradise for dogs. From scenic hiking trails and neighborhood parks to open spaces and beaches, there's no shortage of places to explore.
Unfortunately, all that natural beauty also creates the perfect environment for ticks.
Many dog owners assume ticks are only found deep in the woods, but they're common throughout Marin. They can be found in tall grass, shrubs, wooded trails, parks, and even some neighborhood greenbelts.
The good news? Protecting your dog is usually as simple as building a few good habits into your routine.
Where Dogs Pick Up Ticks
Ticks don't jump or fly.
Instead, they climb onto grass or low vegetation and wait for an animal to brush past. Once they latch onto your dog's fur, they'll crawl until they find a place to attach and feed.
After spending time outdoors, check your dog carefully, especially around:
Ears
Neck and under the collar
Between the toes
Armpits
Groin area
Under the tail
The sooner you find a tick, the better.
Why Ticks Are More Than Just a Nuisance
Besides being unpleasant, ticks can carry diseases that affect both dogs and people.
Not every tick carries disease, and not every bite leads to illness. However, the longer a tick stays attached, the greater the chance of disease transmission.
Watch for symptoms after a tick bite, including:
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Fever
Limping or swollen joints
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Prevention Is Your Best Defense
Fortunately, preventing tick problems is much easier than treating them.
A few simple habits can make a big difference:
Use a veterinarian-recommended tick preventative.
Check your dog after every hike or outdoor adventure.
Stay on maintained trails whenever possible.
Brush your dog's coat before coming back inside.
Wash your dog's bedding regularly.
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, talk with your veterinarian about the best year-round prevention plan.
Don't Forget to Check Yourself
Ticks don't only target dogs.
After spending time outside, take a minute to check yourself and other family members, especially around your legs, waist, scalp, and behind your knees.
It's a quick habit that can help protect everyone.
Enjoy Marin with Confidence
Ticks are simply part of enjoying the outdoors in Northern California—but they don't have to keep you from exploring.
By combining preventative care with a quick post-adventure tick check, you can dramatically reduce your dog's risk while continuing to enjoy everything Marin has to offer.
At Marin Canine Club, we love seeing dogs experience new adventures, make friends, and enjoy life. A few extra minutes spent checking for ticks helps ensure those adventures stay happy, healthy, and worry-free.
