If you live close to forests and fields, you are likely well acquainted with ticks. These tiny arachnids feed on the blood of mammals and birds, and while you will not die from blood loss, ticks can carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis. These illnesses can have life-altering consequences if untreated, so taking precautions is essential. Limiting your chances of being bitten is the best way to protect yourself.

If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it carefully and quickly. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible, then pull it free in a single continuous motion. Do not squeeze or twist the tick, as this may cause it to regurgitate into the wound. For disposal, place the tick in a sealed bag or container to prevent future contact with humans or animals. Alternatively, wrap it in tissue and flush it down the toilet. If you found the tick on a pet, your veterinarian may want to examine it.

Regular tick checks are important for pets, especially in warmer months, though ticks can survive freezing temperatures. Search your pet’s ears, armpits, skin folds, toes, and groin, combing through fur and feeling for small firm bumps. Keeping your pet tick-free also helps keep you and your home tick-free. Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to these resilient parasites.

If you have been bitten, watch for early signs of Lyme disease including flu-like symptoms, joint pain, muscle aches, or a red bullseye rash around the bite. Other tick-borne diseases may present with fever, chills, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical help immediately. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious complications later. Do not ignore the warning signs.