Florida’s Tick Population Is Already Surging in North Pinellas
Why Ticks Are Already Active in Florida
While pet owners in northern states are still dealing with the last of winter, Florida’s ticks never really took a break. Thanks to our mild winters here in the Dunedin and North Pinellas area, tick populations stay active nearly year-round — and by mid-March, they’re in full force.
At Dunedin Animal Medical Center, we’ve already seen an uptick (pun intended) in tick-related visits this spring. The warm, humid climate that makes our area so pleasant for walks along the Pinellas Trail and Honeymoon Island also creates a paradise for parasites.
The Ticks You Need to Watch For
Two species dominate North Pinellas County: the lone star tick and the brown dog tick. Both are aggressive feeders and can transmit serious diseases.
The lone star tick — easily identified by the white dot on the female’s back — is responsible for transmitting ehrlichiosis, a bacterial infection that attacks white blood cells. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and bruising. Left untreated, it can become life-threatening.
Brown dog ticks are especially sneaky because they can complete their entire life cycle indoors. That means your home can become infested even if your dog only spends a few minutes outside. These ticks transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and canine babesiosis.
Where Ticks Hide in North Pinellas
If you walk your dog at Hammock Park, along the Dunedin Causeway, or through any of the nature preserves in Clearwater and Palm Harbor, your pet is at risk. Ticks thrive in tall grass, leaf litter, and wooded areas — but they’re also found in well-maintained backyards, especially near fence lines and shaded areas.
After every outdoor outing, run your fingers through your pet’s fur and check these common hiding spots:
- Inside and around the ears
- Between the toes
- Under the collar
- In the armpits and groin area
- Around the tail base
What to Do If You Find a Tick
Don’t twist or squeeze. Grab the tick with fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up with steady, even pressure. Clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Save the tick in a sealed bag — if your pet develops symptoms, identification helps with diagnosis.
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
Year-round tick prevention is essential in Florida. Products like Simparica, NexGard, and Bravecto are highly effective oral preventatives that kill ticks before they can transmit disease. Topical options and tick collars are also available.
At Dunedin Animal Medical Center, we recommend discussing tick prevention at every wellness visit. Our veterinarians can help you choose the right product based on your pet’s lifestyle, health status, and risk factors specific to the North Pinellas area.
Don’t wait for a tick bite to take action. Schedule a preventive care appointment today and keep your pet protected all year long.