The warmer weather is bringing out the bugs and the Dallas County Health Department hits on preventative measures regarding ticks.

Community Health Educator Natalie Peters tells Raccoon Valley Radio that people should walk in the center of trails to avoid brushing up against plants where ticks reside. She indicates that pet owners can help protect their pets by disciplining them from running off trails as well as putting a tick and flea collar on them. Peters describes signs to look for if a pet is bitten from a tick.

“Look for signs of tick-borne diseases in your pets like vomiting, fever, swelling around joints, lethargy, and let your vet know right away if you notice any of these symptoms because there can be serious complications, or even death.”

Peters suggests removing ticks from pets by the head with tweezers and to wash the affected area on the body. She emphasizes that the main disease concern for humans is Lyme disease.