Vets see increase in tick-borne diseases among dogs in Nova Scotia

A veterinary clinic in Nova Scotia helps pet-owners screen for tick-borne illnesses.

As Nova Scotia sees an uptick in ticks, one veterinary clinic in the province is helping screen dogs for tick-borne diseases at a special clinic.

“There’s definitely been an increase. We’ve had dozens of clients come in early on within the year as well,” said Nikita Chiasson, a veterinary assistant at Cobequid Animal Hospital in Lower Sackville, N.S.

The damp, cool spring brought on a rapid start to the traditional tick season. Because of Nova Scotia’s climate, tick season is technically year-round, but activity ramps up in the spring.

Now that summer is here and more people are heading outdoors with their pets, experts say it’s crucial to be cautious.

“We’re starting to realize now that it’s not just for those types of hikers and campers. Unfortunately, ticks have taken over our backyards, our sidewalks. They’re a little bit more in our homes these days,” said Chiasson.

In response, the Cobequid Animal Hospital held a 4DX clinic to screen dogs for four different diseases on Wednesday.

“We were doing heartworm, which is becoming a lot more prevalent these days, and it’s passed through by mosquito bites,” said registered veterinary technician Avary Miller.

“We also were testing for Lyme, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichia, which are all tick-borne diseases, and we have seen an increase in all three of those in Nova Scotia recently.”

Symptoms of these types of diseases can vary.

“Signs of lethargy, decreased appetite, stiffness or even limping that seems to switch back and forth between legs,” said Chiasson. “The issue is, with most tick-borne diseases, a lot of dogs don’t actually show symptoms, or they don’t show symptoms right away.”

There are steps dog owners can take to try to keep their pets safe.

“Our motto here is prevent, check and test,” said Chiasson.

While searching for ticks on shorter-haired dogs can still pose a challenge, it can be extra difficult for dogs with long fur.

“It’s easier for them to hide. I definitely would recommend getting a fine-tooth comb and brushing the entire dog,” said Miller.

She said owners should check their dogs every time they come inside.

It is also recommended pets receive flea and tick medication all year in Nova Scotia.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page