Pet owners beware of high risk for tick-borne illnesses By Caitlin Huff, WKRN News, Nashville, TN

A heads up for pet owners as an increased risk for disease from ticks has been reported in some areas of the country (map below)..

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has forecasted a higher-than-normal risk for Lyme disease for the rest of May and June. Plus, it has forecasted a year-round threat for Ehrlichiosis.

CAPC is a nonprofit that helps veterinarians and pet owners manage and protect pets from parasite infections. For the last 20 years, its mission has been to monitor and report any emerging threats to animals.

Pet owners can now track the risks of disease outbreaks by following the CAPC’s new 30-Day-Pet-Parasite Forecast Maps. The data is based on recent confirmed reports of four parasitic diseases across the country including Tennessee. The map tracks where Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Heartworm diseases are popping up.

So, what should pet owners do to protect their pets?

Talk to your veterinarian about testing for tick-borne diseases

Talk to your veterinarian about year-round tick prevention

Talk about Lyme disease vaccination options with veterinarian

Diligently check for ticks after spending time outdoors

Lyme and Ehrlichiosis diseases are treatable if found early

Stay aware of threat levels in local areas
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Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) 30 Day Parasite Forecast Map

Some of these diseases can be found in humans as well. They are transmitted by certain species of ticks. With the spread of ticks across the United States, we’re even seeing some incursions of Lyme disease into Tennessee. We had hardly any, in the past, but we’re beginning to see some cases now even here in our own state.”