Tick Prevention for Dogs and Cats in Western New York: A Must for Home, Daycare & Boarding
As the warm seasons roll into Western New York, so do the ticks - and local pet professionals are taking notice. At No Worries Pet Resort & Spa, staff have reported a notable increase in ticks on dogs coming in for daycare and boarding this year. That’s why tick prevention isn’t just a good idea - it’s essential.
Why Ticks Are a Big Deal in WNY
Western New York is prime territory for several types of ticks, especially the black-legged (deer) tick that carries Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. These diseases can cause long-term health issues for pets, from joint pain to kidney complications. What’s worse, your pets can carry ticks home, putting human family members at risk too.
Tick Season Is Expanding
Traditionally, tick season ran from spring to early fall, but with milder winters, ticks are active nearly year-round now. Even during cooler months, your pets can pick up a hitchhiker while playing outside, walking a trail, or hanging out at a boarding facility.
What No Worries Pet Resort & Spa is Seeing
The team at No Worries Pet Resort & Spa has seen more ticks on pets this season than usual, particularly after outdoor playtime. Since dogs interact closely during daycare and group play, it’s easier for a tick to transfer from one pet to another or to sneak onto fur and go unnoticed until later.
That’s why preventative care before daycare or boarding is strongly encouraged - not only for your pet’s health, but to protect all the animals at the facility.
Must-Dos for Tick Prevention
1. Start with Preventative Medications
Before booking a stay or dropping your dog off for daycare, make sure they’re protected with vet-recommended tick prevention. Common options:
Monthly topical treatments
Oral medications (chewables)
Tick-repelling collars (make sure they’re fitted properly)
Never use dog products on cats. Some ingredients can be toxic.
Some examples of ticks removed from pets at No Worries. Photos by Brandy Heineman.
2. Do a Daily Tick Check
Especially after daycare or time outdoors, check the common hiding spots:
Ears and neck folds
Between toes
Under arms and around the tail
Belly and groin
The faster you find and remove a tick, the lower the risk of infection.
3. Talk to Your Vet About the Lyme Vaccine
If your dog frequents daycare or outdoor boarding, ask your veterinarian if the Lyme vaccine is right for them. It’s another layer of protection, especially for dogs that love to romp around in grassy or wooded areas.
4. Grooming Helps
Regular grooming and baths can help detect ticks early. If you’re unsure what to look for, ask the team at No Worries.
Boarding Soon? Don’t Forget Tick Protection
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or your pup’s regular playdate, tick prevention needs to be part of the routine- just like food, toys, and belly rubs. Facilities like No Worries Pet Resort & Spa prioritize clean, safe environments, but it takes a team effort. When every pet arrives protected, everyone stays safer.
Have questions about what product is best for your pet? Reach out to your vet or ask the No Worries team for general advice before your next visit.
Protect your pet. Protect the pack. Tick prevention isn’t optional. It’s part of being a responsible pet parent in Western New York.