(NEXSTAR) – Tick activity has been high so far this year, with emergency department visits sparked by the pests reaching levels we haven’t seen in a decade.
Ticks, while small, can cause major problems. They’re capable of spreading Lyme disease, rare viruses, and a condition capable of making you allergic to red meat and other animal products.
The same tick that can cause the latter condition in you, the lone star tick, has also been linked to a disease known as “bobcat fever” in cats. Dogs (and cats, though less likely) can get Lyme disease. Both animals can bring ticks into your home, potentially spreading them to you.
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As with yourself or your children, experts recommend checking pets that go outdoors for ticks. A guide from the CDC says to check in and around their ears, around their eyelids and tail, under their collar and front legs, and between the back legs and their toes…