The 2026 tick season is shaping up to be one of the

most intense Rochester has seen, with experts predicting early and heavy activity throughout Western New York.

Tick Season image

Understanding Tick Season

If you’ve noticed more “creepy crawlies” than usual this spring, you aren’t imagining things. Local health officials and the CDC report that emergency room visits for tick bites in the Northeast are already trending higher than historic averages. A “cold-warm-cold” winter cycle this year actually boosted tick survival rates rather than reducing them, leading to a surge in activity as soon as temperatures consistently hit 45 degrees.

Here is what you need to know to keep your four-legged family members safe this season.

1. The “Tick Check” Routine
Ticks in Rochester are sneaky, often hiding in hard-to-reach spots. After every walk—especially if you’ve been near Highland Park, Mendon Ponds, or even just tall grass in the backyard—run your hands over your dog’s entire body.
Focus on these hot spots:
  • Inside and behind the ears
  • Between the toes and paw pads
  • Under the front legs (armpits) and tail
  • Around the collar line
2. Create a “Tick-Free” Zone at Home
You can significantly lower the risk in your own yard with a few landscaping tweaks:
  • Mow High, But Not Too High: Ticks love tall grass. Keeping your lawn manicured removes their favorite waiting spots.
  • Clear the Clutter: Remove piles of damp leaves and brush where ticks overwinter and breed.
  • The Mulch Moat: Consider creating a barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and any wooded areas to stop ticks from migrating into your dog’s play zone.
3. Layer Your Protection
The most effective defense is a veterinary-approved preventative. Whether you choose a monthly topical treatment, an oral chew, or a collar, ensure it is up to date.
  • Note: Never use dog tick products on cats, as they can be toxic.

Common Questions About Ticks and Pets

What are the signs of a tick bite on my pet?

Look for redness, swelling, or irritation at the bite site. Your pet may also scratch or lick the area excessively.

How can I prevent ticks on my pets?

Use veterinarian-recommended tick preventatives, regularly check your pet for ticks, and keep your yard tidy to reduce tick habitats.

What should I do if I find a tick on my pet?

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it out steadily. Clean the area with antiseptic.

Are there any natural tick repellents for pets?

Essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus can be used as natural repellents, but consult your vet before using them on your pet.

Hot off the press

The Muddy Spring Survival Guide

Discover effective strategies to keep your dog's paws clean and your home mud-free during the muddy spring months.As spring arrives, pet parents face the daunting task of managing muddy paws. The combination of melting snow and frequent rain creates a perfect storm...

The Ultimate Guide: How Often Should You Groom Your Pet?

Keeping your pet clean is about more than just avoiding that "stinky dog" smell. Regular grooming keeps your furry friend healthy, comfortable, and looking their best. However, there is no single rule for how often to groom a pet. The perfect schedule depends entirely...
The Muddy Spring Survival Guide

The Muddy Spring Survival Guide

Discover effective strategies to keep your dog's paws clean and your home mud-free during the muddy spring months.As spring arrives, pet parents face the daunting task of managing muddy paws. The combination of melting snow and frequent rain creates a perfect storm...

read more

Comprehensive Grooming Solutions

Tick Prevention and Removal Services

Tick-Repellent Bath

Our specialized tick-repellent bath uses natural ingredients to protect your pet from ticks while keeping their coat shiny and healthy.

Thorough Tick Check

We conduct a meticulous tick check to ensure your pet is free from these pests, providing peace of mind for you and comfort for your pet.

Tick Removal Treatment

Our expert groomers safely remove ticks using gentle techniques, minimizing discomfort and preventing future infestations.

Flea and Tick Shampoo

Our flea and tick shampoo is designed to cleanse your pet’s coat while effectively repelling ticks and other parasites.

Preventative Grooming

Regular grooming sessions help prevent tick infestations by keeping your pet’s coat clean and manageable.

Seasonal Grooming Packages

Our seasonal grooming packages are tailored to address the specific needs of your pet during tick season, ensuring they stay healthy and happy.

What Our Customers Say

Did a wonderful job with a very feisty cat!!!

Susan T.

 

Thanks so much Jada for making Olliver so handsome! You are a rock star, I know he was a bit of a mess and wiggly because of his not so great visit at another salon. You are amazing! Thanks again!

Vicki M.

They are great! They took Odins needs into consideration and understood that he easily gets hot spots and needs to be dried thoroughly. Will continue to go back

Mike R.

Protect Your Pet from Ticks Today!

Ensure your furry friend is safe and tick-free with our expert grooming services. Schedule an appointment now to keep your pet healthy and happy during tick season.

By Appointment Only

1995-1999 Empire Blvd.
Webster, NY 14580
585.872.1350

1948 Finley Rd.
Walworth, NY 14568
585.314.8755

Please ADOPT don't shop

Some of the organizations we

personally work with:



 

Copyright @2026 | Clip-n-Cuddle Grooming Salon, Inc -  CNC Small Dog Day Camp | All Rights Reserved | Sweettoothmarketing.com