Deer Ticks are one hell of a nuisance and can cause plenty of problems if not removed or dealt with.  With the ever-growing population of deer and other wild animals that carry these little critters, we all need to be on the lookout for them with our fur kids.  Especially after going for a hike in the woods or down the local park. 

Remember this: To deal with deer ticks on your pet and prevent infestations, you need a combination of daily tick checks, proper removal, veterinary‑approved preventives, and yard/environment control. Deer ticks (black‑legged ticks) are common in New Jersey and can transmit Lyme, anaplasmosis, and other pathogens, so consistent prevention matters.

What do deer ticks do to pets?

Deer ticks attach quietly and feed for hours. Pets can develop Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, or skin infections. Symptoms often appear 7–21 days after a bite, so monitoring is essential.

 Immediate steps when you find a tick on your pet

  • Proper tick removal — Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp close to the skin, and pull straight upward. Do not twist, crush, or apply substances.
  • Clean the bite site — Soap + water or antiseptic.
  • Save or photograph the tick — Helps your vet identify species.
  • Watch for symptoms — Fever, lethargy, limping, appetite changes.
  • Call your veterinarian — Especially if symptoms appear or if you’re unsure about removal.

Daily tick checks (your best defense)

Ticks are often found:

  • Around ears
  • Under their collar
  • Between toes
  • Groin Area
  • Tail base
  • Around eyes
  • Under front legs Run your hands slowly over your pet to feel for bumps. A lint roller helps pick up tiny ticks before they attach.

 

Tick prevention products (vet‑approved)

These reduce bites and kill ticks before they transmit disease. Options include:

  • Spot‑on treatments (Revolution Plus®, Advantage Multi®)
  • Oral chews (NexGard®, Bravecto®)
  • Tick collars (good for pets that swim)
  • Shampoos and Dips (remove existing ticks but don’t prevent future bites)

Important:

  • Cats are extremely sensitive to many chemicals — never apply dog products to cats.
  • Do not double up products without veterinary guidance.

Preventing infestations in your yard

Ticks thrive in leaf litter, tall grass, and shaded moist areas. Reduce habitat by:

  • Removing leaf litter and yard clutter
  • Mowing grass regularly
  • Clearing tall grasses around the house
  • Creating a 3‑ft gravel or wood‑chip barrier between lawn and woods
  • Stacking wood neatly to avoid rodent nesting
  • Discouraging deer and stray animals with fencing
  • Considering professional acaricide (tick spray) treatments in high‑density areas

Preventing indoor infestations

Brown dog ticks can infest homes and kennels.

  • Use indoor flea/tick foggers or powders
  • Treat baseboards, doorways, and window frames
  • Apply insecticide along carpet–wall edges
  • If you’re hesitant to apply products within your home, there may be a company that will come to your home and apply the preventative products for a fee

 

When to call your vet

Seek veterinary care if your pet shows:

  • Fever
  • Joint pain or limping
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite