Hiking With Dogs in BC: What You Need to Know About Ticks

Jun 15

Kris Hampton, CTC, CPDT-KA & Leslie Sanchez

Hiking season is here, and so are ticks. Knowing how to prevent them and what to do if you find one can help keep your dog safe and healthy while enjoying BC trails this summer.

Honey, a Pitt Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Mastiff mix, settles on a patio couch before a Raintown Private Training session with Kris.

Tip 1: Prevention Before & During Your Hike

The best way to reduce tick exposure is to be intentional before and during your hike. A few small habits can make a big difference in reducing risk.

Preventative protection: Use vet-approved sprays, attire, and treatments when appropriate.
Check local advisories: Review recent local tick activity before heading out.
Stick to well-maintained trails: Avoid tall grass and dense brush where ticks are more common.
Leash & long line: Use these in higher-risk areas so you can better guide where your dog explores.
Bring a tick kit: Pack a removal kit in case you encounter them on the trail. These typically include tweezers, identification cards, storage vials, and antiseptic wipes.

Simple, consistent choices before and during your hike can significantly reduce the chances of ticks attaching to your dog.

Patterdale Terrier puppy walks in a backyard on his way to a Raintown Dog Walk with Lauren.

Tip 2: After the Hike: Checks & Removal

Tick prevention doesn’t end when the hike is over. Here’s what to focus on once you’re home:

Full body check: Pay close attention to ears, paws, under the collar, armpits, and groin.
Brush the coat: Go through your dog’s coat after hikes to help catch anything that may have been missed.
Tick removal: If you find a tick, remove it carefully using a proper tick tool or tweezers.

The sooner you check, the easier it is to remove ticks safely and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.