At Bed and BARKfest, we’re all about living your best life with your four-legged bestie - whether that’s playing fetch in your backyard, enjoying a long hike or splashing in the lake. But from early spring through late fall, ticks can be an unwelcome part of Michigan’s outdoor fun.
The good news? Protecting your dog is simple once you know what to watch for. We’re breaking down everything you need to know so you and your pup can adventure with confidence.
What are Ticks?
Ticks are tiny, blood-sucking parasites that love the same Michigan trails, woods, and tall grass our dogs do. The most common ones here are the American dog tick, deer tick, and lone star tick - all of which can carry diseases.
How Ticks Affect Dogs
In Michigan, ticks can carry diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis - all of which can make your pup seriously sick.
Watch for signs like:
- Lethargy or low energy
- Fever
- Joint pain or limping
- Loss of appetite
Sometimes, you’ll spot the tick itself before any symptoms show up. Other times, your dog might not show signs until weeks after a bite—so regular checks and early action are key.
How to Check Your Dog for Ticks
After a romp in the woods, a stroll through tall grass, or even just hanging out in the backyard, it’s a good idea to give your pup a quick tick check - especially during Michigan’s warmer months.
Run your hands through your dog’s fur and check:
- Behind the ears
- Around the neck and under the collar
- Between the toes
- Under the legs and tail
- Around the eyes and muzzle
Tick checks only take a minute and can make a big difference. Make it part of your post-adventure routine!
How to Remove a Tick Safely (with a Little Help from Your Wallet)
Found a tick on your dog? No stress. Grab your Bed and BARKfest Tick Remover Card - a slim, wallet-sized tool designed for on-the-go peace of mind. Pop it in your wallet and you're covered for tick season!
How to Use the Card:
- Slide the narrow notch under the tick, as close to your dog’s skin as possible.
- Gently lift and slide the card forward - the tick should come right out, no twisting or squeezing required.
- Clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Save the tick in a sealed container or bag in case your vet wants to ID it
Tick Prevention Tips
Prevention is the best protection! Thankfully, there are plenty of options to suit your pup, your lifestyle, and your budget.
- Stick to trails and avoid tall grass
- Do daily tick checks, especially after hikes, park visits, or playtime in the yard
- Keep your yard trimmed and tidy
- Use vet-approved tick preventatives (topicals, chews, or collars)
- Add a spray-on repellent to your routine for an added layer of protection - we love Wondercide, watch how we use it here!
- Carry your Bed & BARKfest tick remover card so you’re always ready to handle any uninvited guests!
When to Call Your Vet
Not every tick bite needs a vet visit - but some definitely do. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to give your vet a quick call.
Call Your Vet If:
- The tick was engorged (puffy or full of blood)
- It was attached for more than 24 hours
- Part of the tick got left behind during removal
- Your dog shows signs of illness in the days or weeks after
Even if everything looks fine, it’s never a bad idea to save the tick in a sealed bag just in case your vet wants to test or identify it.
Final Tick Tips
With a little routine and the right tools, you can continue enjoying Michigan’s great outdoors without bringing home any creepy crawlies.
Here’s a quick recap to keep in your back pocket:
- Do daily tick checks - especially after outdoor play or walks
- Keep your yard trimmed and free of tall grass or leaf piles
- Use a vet-recommended preventative or natural alternative that best fits your dog’s lifestyle
- Carry our tick remover card for quick, clean removals
- Watch for symptoms of illness after bites, and don’t hesitate to call your vet
At Bed and BARKfest, we’re here to help you keep your dog happy, healthy, and always ready for the next adventure. Check out our tips in action!
