Ticks are bugs that can easily get on humans, but we usually find them on our pets.

Dr. Richard Nokes with Angels for Animals said he’s seen an increase in the cases of Lyme disease in dogs this year. Ticks can carry the disease. If left untreated, it can be deadly for your dog.

“It can be a life-threatening disease,” Nokes said. “Now that we are looking for it, we are finding it.”

Nokes says Lyme disease can be debilitating for dogs and humans. Symptoms may be hard to detect but include fever and arthritic changes.

A simple blood test can detect the disease and stop it from progressing to something serious such as encephalitis.

Nokes strongly suggests checking your pets regularly for ticks and make sure they are vaccinated.  

“We have better tick and flea control methods now and also vaccines for Lyme disease,” Nokes said.