An Ounce of Prevention

Yes, that’s a tick. We recently pulled one off our black ShihTzu and that was my sign to kick my springtime prep into prevention mode.

Much time during the winter was spent conducting research. Yes, you can purchase tick-repellent clothing but it’s only good for six wash cycles. Why spend all the extra money when you can treat your hiking clothes yourself? I am all about DIY and with the sun fully out, a weekend of hiking ahead and in full prep mode it was time to spray my outerwear layers with Pro-Perm. I found this product on Amazon.ca for around $40/gal. I can treat a lot of clothes with nearly 4 litres! The scent is not strong but pleasant and the light mist penetrated the fabric quickly. As stated on the label: apply a safe distance away from pets.

Merino tops, pants and neck gaiters are treated. I am ready for the battle of the ticks!

For clients during woodland tours I offer these repellents. “Atlantick” is my proven go-to since we lived in Saskatchewan. I use it on my small dogs with great success! I spray it on my palm, rub my hands together and rub down their legs and back. For humans I recommend spraying the lower part of pant legs just in case there are ticks waiting in the grass bordering the trail.

My hope for this year is that I don’t feel even one little tick crawling across my legs or arms. I will update this post with reports on how well my action plan works.

Happy spring and summer hiking! Remember, ticks become active at +4C and they don’t die during a cold snap in the winter, they have an uncanny ability to go dormant. The long cold spells might reduce reproductive activity but definitely won’t destroy them. These are facts coming from my entomologist husband.

In the event that you find a tick has latched on seek immediate help. Your pharmacist will be able to assess the need to treat. Don’t let those tiny critters mess with your health!