Spring has arrived, outdoor activities are resuming — and with them, ticks are back. In Quebec, this small parasite has become a growing concern for dog owners. And for good reason: ticks are no longer only found in remote forests. They are now present in urban parks, playgrounds, and even in some residential areas.

In this article, we explain everything you need to know to protect your dog right now: where ticks are found, how to spot them, and most importantly, the most effective ways to prevent bites.

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Ticks in Quebec: A Growing Threat

A rapidly spreading parasite

For a long time, black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) were mainly found in regions bordering the United States. Today, their territory has expanded significantly. They are found in the Eastern Townships, Montérégie, Quebec City region, Lanaudière, the Laurentians, and well beyond.

This expansion is partly linked to climate change: milder winters allow these parasites to survive and reproduce in areas where they did not previously live.

Why is it dangerous for your dog?

The black-legged tick is the main vector of Lyme disease in Canada. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the number of reported Lyme disease cases has been steadily increasing since the 2000s.

In dogs, Lyme disease can cause:

• Fever and lack of energy
• Joint pain and lameness
• Loss of appetite
• In severe cases, kidney or heart damage

What makes this disease particularly insidious is that symptoms can appear weeks or months after the bite, and many infected dogs show no visible signs.

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When and Where Are Ticks Active in Quebec?

Tick season: longer than you think

Contrary to what one might think, ticks are not only active in the middle of summer. Black-legged ticks become active as soon as the temperature exceeds 4°C — which, in Quebec, can mean as early as late March or early April.

The highest risk period generally extends from April to November, with peaks in spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October).

At-risk areas

Ticks love environments that allow them to attach to a passing host. Be particularly vigilant in:

• Forests and undergrowth: especially where vegetation is dense
• Tall grasses and brush: along trails, fields, or waterways
• Wooded areas in urban settings: nature parks, vacant lots, riverbanks
• Your own backyard: if it's adjacent to woods or an unmaintained area

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How to Spot a Tick on Your Dog?

Where to look after a walk

Ticks always look for areas where the skin is thinner and the fur is less dense. After each outdoor excursion, carefully inspect:

• The head and neck: behind the ears, under the collar
• The paws: between the toes, in the folds of the groin and armpits
• The belly and tail: especially around the base of the tail

A freshly attached tick is tiny — sometimes the size of a sesame seed. Run your fingers slowly through the fur to feel for unusual small bumps.

How to remove a tick correctly?

If you find a tick attached to your dog, don't wait. The longer it stays on, the higher the risk of transmission. It generally takes 24 to 36 hours for an infected tick to transmit the bacteria.

Use a tick remover tool (avoid ordinary tweezers) and follow these steps:

1. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, without crushing it
2. Pull gently and firmly, without twisting
3. Disinfect the area after removal
4. Keep the tick in an airtight container if you want it analyzed

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The Best Ways to Prevent Tick Bites

1. Preventive antiparasitics: the most reliable protection

This is the most effective and veterinarian-recommended method. Among the most recognized products in Canada, K9 Advantix II is a topical solution that repels and kills ticks (as well as fleas and mosquitoes) even before they bite.

The treatment is applied directly to the skin, between the shoulder blades, once a month. It's simple, fast, and offers continuous protection throughout the season. You can find it here at Sherbrooke Canin →

2. Natural supplements as reinforcement

Some owners choose to supplement antiparasitic protection with natural solutions. Products like La Nature Bouclier by Blends For Life contain ingredients known to strengthen natural resistance to parasites. Discover the product →

3. Repellent shampoos

For dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, a shampoo with repellent properties can provide additional protection. Dogmä Dog Bügs shampoo is a natural and effective option to keep insects away during bathing. See the product →

4. Good daily habits

In addition to products, a few simple habits make a real difference:

• Inspect your dog after each outing in at-risk areas
• Keep grass short in your yard
• Stay on marked trails during hikes
• Consult your veterinarian for annual Lyme disease screening, especially if you live in an at-risk area

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Signs Your Dog Might Have Lyme Disease

Even with good prevention, it's important to know the warning signs. Consult a veterinarian promptly if your dog exhibits:

• Unexplained fever (the dog appears lethargic, warm to the touch)
• Lameness that shifts from paw to paw or appears and disappears
• Lack of appetite or weight loss
• Swollen lymph nodes
• A marked decrease in energy

The sooner Lyme disease is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment. Don't risk waiting.

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In Summary: Your Protection Plan

The best protection against ticks is a proactive and combined approach:

1. Start prevention in April — don't wait until summer
2. Use a monthly antiparasitic like K9 Advantix II
3. Inspect your dog after each outdoor excursion
4. Consult your veterinarian for screening if you live in an endemic area

Ticks are a reality in Quebec, but with the right habits and products, you can enjoy nature with your dog with complete peace of mind.

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Do you have questions about antiparasitic products or need personalized advice? Our team is here to help. Contact us →