Spring is here and that means more time outdoors with our beloved pets. This also means potential risk for parasitic diseases transmitted by ticks and mosquitos which can be deadly to pets and harmful to humans. Parasite infections are real and the risk is higher than ever. How to keep everyone safe? Veterinarians and members of the Companion Animal Parasite Council Dr. Rick Marrinson and Dr. Kathryn Sarpong share the findings from the 2023 National Parasite Forecast and how to protect your pets. The big news from the 2023 annual forecast is that the risk of Lyme disease is on the rise and has spread into new parts of the country. All the areas of red and orange on the map indicate high levels of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is considered zoonic, which means it is a disease that can affect both animals and people. In many ways, dogs are the indicator for human disease. Far more dogs than humans are tested each year for Lyme disease, so we have much more data about the amount of Lyme in dogs. But research by CAPC's parasitologists has proven that the incidence of disease in dogs, parallels Lyme disease in humans. The forecast map speaks directly to the risk for both dogs and people. It is also important to understand that people cannot catch Lyme disease directly from their dog, or vice versa. The bacteria that causes Lyme must come through the bite of an infected tick. To protect our dogs and ourselves talk to your veterinarian at least once a year for testing and advice. They're the local experts who can best advise you on infectious diseases for your specific circumstances. Fortunately, there are very effective vaccines, great testing, and safe anti-tick medications to prevent infection. Vaccines are great to consider in all endemic and emerging areas for Lyme disease. And the medications keep your dog from bringing live ticks into your house and exposing you. This is important year-round. If you protect your dog from Lyme disease, you are helping to protect your family. CAPC also reminds you to see your veterinarian, to test your pets for parasites annually, to vaccinate when appropriate, and to maintain pets on year-round parasite preventive medications. Visit petdiseasealerts.org for more information and to view the parasite forecast maps, which allow you to monitor parasite activity in your county and in areas you might be traveling to.
