For most of La Plata County’s history, ticks have been little more than an afterthought. Sitting at an elevation of 6,512 feet, our community has long enjoyed a natural buffer against many of the pest pressures that are seen in lower-lying areas. This year, however, is proving to be a different story, and the team at La Plata County Humane Society is seeing it firsthand.
This year, for the first time in the organization's history, staff members are treating every animal for ticks at the time of intake because of increased tick activity. The species showing up? The American dog tick. This is a species that, until now, has rarely been a concern at our elevation.
The science behind this shift points clearly to our mild winter. According to the National Wildlife Federation, milder winters result in more ticks surviving the cold season, which can lead to population booms and increased risk of tick-borne illness. Normally, harsh cold acts as a natural population check. Potomac Conservancy reports that usually, about 20% of tick populations die off each winter because of freezing temperatures. When that cold never arrives, far more ticks survive to the spring, lay eggs and the summer population booms. Researchers at Colorado State University have confirmed the clear trend: Longer periods of warmth in Colorado means we are going to encounter ticks more often.
The American dog ticks’ presence at our elevation is particularly significant. Research from CSU found that Rocky Mountain wood ticks typically inhabit counties at higher elevations. American dog ticks are traditionally a lower-elevation, plains species, but their presence has been expanding throughout Colorado. Dog ticks are common in our neighboring states and may travel with people and pets into new territories. University of Colorado Anschutz reports that the American dog tick represented 92% of ticks found attached to dogs in Colorado. While dog ticks are not the ones to transmit Lyme disease, American dog ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia (aka rabbit fever), according to the Mayo Clinic.
The practical takeaway for La Plata County residents is straightforward: If tick prevention has never been part of your routine, this is the year to change that. Talk to your veterinarian about tick-prevention options for your dogs and cats. Over-the-counter options are available, but it is important to make sure you are using the right product for your pet. When spending time outdoors, check yourself and your pets thoroughly after all outings. Pay close attention to ears, armpits and between the toes where ticks like to hide. A little prevention and awareness will go a long way in keeping you and your pet safe this summer.
Colleen Dunning is executive director of La Plata County Humane Society.
