Ticks Important Message

Important Message Regarding Ticks in the Shawano Area

We’ve recently had reports of some dogs and people experiencing tick bites in our area.  It’s probably prudent for all our community to be aware of the tick population explosion and to take precautions when walking the woods and trails and even long grass on your own property.

Ticks are being reported as an aggressive presence in Ontario in 2026.  At present although several types of ticks are found in Canada, only the black-legged tick can be infected with the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease.  And even then, not all of them are infected.  Black-legged ticks prefer wooded and brushy areas and high humidity, but when temperatures are lower and humid, they are most active.  Our spring has been the perfect storm.

You’ve Spotted a Tick!  What you should do?

1. Remove the tick immediately using fine-tipped tweezers. Pull the tick straight out. If you find a tick on your pet – call your vet!
2. DO NOT SQUEEZE the body during the removal process, as this can accidentally let the Lyme Disease bacteria into the body.
3. Do not put anything (like Vaseline) on the tick or try to burn it off; as once again, this may release the bacteria back into the bite area.
4. Clean the bite with soap and water.  Wash your hands immediately and disinfect the area with rubbing alcohol.
5. Call your physician or seek medical advice immediately.  You may be asked to submit the tick to determine if it carries Lyme disease.

For complete information, please refer to Public Health Ontario in the link given below.

Government of Ontario – Tick-Borne Diseases

There is also a public platform app called eTick  – https://www.etick.ca/ which can be downloaded to your phone and help with identification of the tick.

Be careful on your walks and adventures and watch carefully every time you come home for bites.  Let’s ensure our outside trips are safe and healthy in the months ahead.