Texas is warm enough for ticks to be present year-round, but they are especially prevalent now. Here are a few tips for how to prevent them.

Check for ticks daily. Brush your fingers through their fur, applying enough pressure to feel any small bumps. If you do feel a bump, pull the fur apart to identify it. An embedded tick will vary in size and will be black or brown.

Depending on the size and location of the tick, its legs may also be visible. Engorged ticks may look like fat seeds. Ticks attach anywhere, even in the paws, so check everywhere.

If you find a tick, remove it right away. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Grasp the tick with fine-tipped tweezers. Get as close to your dog's skin as possible. With a steady motion, pull the tick's body off your dog. To prevent infection, avoid crushing the tick. Flush the tick down the toilet and clean your dog's skin with soap and warm water. Never use petroleum jelly, a hot match, nail polish or other products to remove a tick.

Anti-Tethering Ordinance

Effective October 1, 2007, citizens may not chain or tether their dogs. If you are in financial difficulty, and need help building a fence for your dog, or if you would like to make a donation to this cause, Chain Free Austin can help.

Spay or Neuter Your Pet

Our next EmanciPET appointments are scheduled for May 27th. Let us know if you'd like your pet to be spayed or neutered (fees range from $29 to $59) on that day. We provide the morning transportation to the facility, and you pick up.