Tick Tock. Tick Tock. Tick talk? It’s nearly that time again.

It’s just about tick season, and Saskatchewan residents are being reminded to watch out for the critters as they venture outdoors this spring.

The vile little pests pose not just a risk to people, but our pets as well.

Dr. Emily Boutilier is with the Albert North Veterinary clinic – and says the risk ticks pose to pets is great.

“The biggest risk ticks pose – is tick borne illness. Things that are transmitted from them to our furry friends when they get bit. The main concern is Lyme Disease – that said we don’t typically see the tick that carries Lyme. The risk of that disease here is quite low,” says Dr. Boutilier

With numerous prevention methods out there to keep pets safe from ticks – it’s hard to gauge what products are safe and effective.

“There are over the counter and prescription products. We find that the vet exclusive tick prevention products are more effective and safe. Tick prevention collars are full of pesticides and can pose a risk to kids.”

Tick removal can be a challenge for both people and animals – something Boutilier says there is assistance available for.

“Be careful about how you remove ticks! Take a clean pair of tweezers and pinch where the mouth parts meet the skin. Pull gently being careful not to pop it’s head off. If you’re having trouble removing – go to a local vet and they will give you a hand.”

Tick season typically is thought to end when the weather get’s warmer. This is a common misconception about the life of a tick say’s Dr. Boutilier

“We often hear that ticks in our area leave in July with the heat of the summer. This isn’t true! Ticks typically emerge around 4 degrees, and are around until the ground freezes.”

The ticks we have in Saskatchewan do not usually carry Lyme Disease – Black legged ticks are the usual carriers and they are sometimes introduced by migratory birds.