When many people think of ticks, they associate it primarily with heavily wooded regions and human illness. While the most known tick-borne disease, Lyme disease, is not considered a primary concern in Omaha, ticks are very much present in Omaha and can carry other diseases that affect pets.
Ticks are present in many everyday environments, and pets are often exposed during normal outdoor activities. Dogs and outdoor cats encounter ticks far more frequently than people, making awareness and prevention essential.
Ticks can transmit a variety of diseases to pets through their bites. Common infections we see at Skyline Veterinary Clinic include ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis. Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme are rarely seen but can occur in this region. Exposure does not require hiking through forests or rural areas. Ticks are commonly encountered during routine activities.
In dogs, tick-borne diseases do not always cause immediate or obvious symptoms. Some pets may show no signs at all. When illness does occur, symptoms may include:
Cats are less commonly affected by tick-borne disease, but they are still at risk, especially if they spend time outdoors. Prevention remains important for their health and safety.
Ticks are common across eastern Nebraska due to the area’s mix of neighborhoods, green spaces, and active wildlife. As a result, pets can be exposed to ticks during normal, everyday activities in places such as:
Pets, especially dogs, engage in behaviors that increase tick exposure, including running through grass, brushing against vegetation, and spending extended time close to the ground. Ticks do not jump or fly; instead, they attach when an animal passes through their environment.
Since dogs do not routinely groom themselves in a way that removes attached ticks, ticks can remain undetected long enough to transmit disease. While pets do not directly spread tick-borne disease to people, they can carry ticks indoors, increasing the chance of human exposure.
Our veterinarians recommend annual tick-borne disease screening in all dogs at their wellness visit. These tests help identify exposure to certain organisms, though a positive result does not always mean active illness.
Diagnosis is based on a combination of:
Some pets may test positive and remain healthy, while others may develop symptoms weeks or even months after exposure. Monitoring for subtle changes in behavior or mobility and seeking veterinary evaluation when concerns arise are important steps in early detection.
When pets develop clinical signs of tick-borne disease, treatment typically involves antibiotics or supportive care depending on the condition.
Most dogs respond well when treatment is started early. However, some tick-borne diseases can lead to more serious complications if left unmanaged. This makes prevention and monitoring especially important throughout the year.
Preventing tick-borne disease in pets is more effective than treating it. Recommended prevention strategies include:
Pets rely on their owners to manage their health and protection so they can remain active and comfortable. Consistent prevention, informed awareness, and regular veterinary care are key to reducing risk.
Talk with our veterinarians about the most appropriate tick prevention plan for your pet. A few preventive steps can provide long term protection and peace of mind throughout the year. Schedule an appointment today.
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