Proper grooming habits and regular spot inspections are the best ways to prevent a tick infestation. Use a fine-toothed comb while bathing your pet in order to detect small ticks on the skin’s surface, which you can then remove carefully with tweezers or a tick remover stick. In addition, check for hidden ticks by running your fingers through your pet’s fur and inspecting the belly, legs, and ears. If you see a tick on your pet, remove it with proper removal techniques to avoid spreading the parasite.

Ticks often converge in warm areas such as kennels or yards where pets rest. To prevent infestations in these areas, keep grass and bushes trimmed and clean up fallen leaves.

Finally, if you own a kennel or boarding facility, inspect all animals before allowing them to return home. Contact your veterinarian immediately if an animal is discovered with ticks in order to prevent the spread of disease.