Boost veterinary clients' tick IQ

Prevention and early detection are key when it comes to safeguarding pets against Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. Offer clients this simple advice, courtesy of the American Lyme Disease Foundation and Dr. Fred Metzger, Dipl. ABVP, owner of Metzger Animal Hospital in State College, Pa.

1. Encourage pet owners to inspect their pets every time they go outside.

2. Describe the areas where they're most likely to encounter ticks, from shady, moist ground litter to tall grass, brush, and shrubs.

3. Identify the different areas of the body where ticks like to latch, such as protected, creased areas in armpits.

4. Remind clients not to panic if they notice a tick attached to the pet. Then explain that experts often discourage killing the tick before removal.

5. Encourage the pet owner to visit your practice to have the tick removed, if possible. This guarantees full removal of the tick and allows you to follow up with a discussion about tick prevention programs, Lyme disease vaccinations, and testing for tick-borne diseases.