Tick Surge Hits Ontario: How to Keep Yourself and Your Pets Safe This Summer

Ontario residents are hearing the buzz: this summer’s tick numbers are rising faster than usual, and experts warn the tiny pests could be everywhere—from city parks to suburban backyards. Dr. Maya Singh, an entomologist at the University of Toronto, says the surge is tied to a warm, damp spring that gave tick larvae a perfect launchpad.

“We’re essentially seeing a ‘wave’ of ticks moving northward,” Singh explains, gesturing to a chart that shows a steady climb in black‑legged tick sightings over the past three years. “If you think ticks are only a rural problem, think again— they’re showing up in residential neighborhoods, on sidewalks, even on school fields.”

So, what can you do? The first line of defense is simple yet often overlooked: dress for the battle. Wear long sleeves and pants, tuck the cuffs into your socks, and choose light‑colored clothing that makes spotting a tiny arachnid easier.

Next, don’t forget the repellents. Products containing 20‑30% DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 are proven to keep ticks at bay for several hours. Apply them to exposed skin and clothing, but remember to re‑apply after swimming or heavy sweating.

After a walk in the woods or even a quick stroll around the block, do a thorough tick check. Look especially in warm, moist spots—behind the knees, under the arms, and around the hairline. If you find a tick, use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible, pull upward steadily, and clean the bite area with alcohol.

Homeowners can also shrink the tick habitat around the house. Keep grass trimmed short, remove leaf litter, and create a dry barrier of wood chips or gravel between the lawn and wooded areas. A dry environment makes it harder for ticks to survive.

Pets are not immune. Dogs and cats can carry ticks straight into your living room. Speak with your veterinarian about year‑round tick preventatives—collars, spot‑on treatments, or oral medications. Even with protectants, give your pets a quick once‑a‑day visual inspection, especially after outdoor adventures.

If a tick bites you or your animal, watch for symptoms of Lyme disease: fever, fatigue, headache, or a characteristic bull’s‑eye rash. Early treatment with antibiotics works well, but catching it early is key.

Finally, stay informed. Local health units are posting tick activity maps online, and the public health department will issue alerts if the situation worsens. Knowledge, preparation, and a bit of vigilance can keep the tick tide at bay, letting you enjoy Ontario’s beautiful outdoors without the bite.