With recent headlines swirling about the Lone Star Tick and its unusual effects on humans, it’s no surprise many Ohioans are asking questions. Can this tick really make people allergic to red meat? What about dairy? And most importantly—should pet owners be worried?
Let’s break it all down.
What Is the Lone Star Tick—and Why the Buzz?
The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum) is native to the southeastern U.S. but has been steadily migrating north and west, including into Ohio and other parts of the Midwest. Named for the single white dot on the adult female’s back, this aggressive tick doesn’t just wait around for a host—it actively seeks one.
The big concern for humans? The alpha-gal molecule it can transmit through its bite. In some people, this can trigger Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS)—a delayed allergic reaction to mammalian meat (like beef, pork, and lamb) and sometimes even dairy.
That’s right—one tick bite could make a cheeseburger dangerous.
But What About Dogs and Cats?
Here’s where it gets interesting—and reassuring.
Dogs and cats are already alpha-gal positive, meaning they naturally produce or carry this sugar molecule in their bodies. So, while humans may develop a meat allergy after a Lone Star Tick bite, our furry companions are in the clear from this particular concern.
However, that doesn’t mean ticks are harmless to pets.
Ticks Still Pose Serious Risks to Pets
Even if the Lone Star Tick’s alpha-gal allergy does not affect pets, other ticks absolutely do. Dogs and cats can be exposed to multiple tick-borne illnesses, including:
- Lyme disease
- Ehrlichiosis
- Anaplasmosis
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Some of these can cause fever, lameness, joint pain, or even life-threatening complications.
Prevention is everything. And with warmer, wetter weather patterns creating longer tick seasons here in Ohio, year-round protection is more important than ever.
How to Protect Both Pets and People
Healthy Pets of Ohio recommends these tick-smart tips:
For Pets:
- Keep up with monthly flea & tick prevention (ask us about our most trusted options)
- Check your pets—especially after hikes, walks, or yard time
- Focus on ears, neck, belly, and between toes
- Consider landscaping to minimize tick habitat (remove brush and leaf litter)
For Humans:
- Wear long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas
- Use EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin
- Shower soon after being outdoors
- Do regular full-body tick checks
A Final Thought: Ticks Are Changing—Stay Ahead of Them
As new species like the Lone Star Tick expand into Ohio, awareness is your best defense. At Healthy Pets of Ohio, we believe education is key to both human and animal health.
So whether it’s your dog’s next wellness exam, or your own backyard adventures, we’re here to help you stay tick-free and worry-free.
Have questions or want to make sure your pet is fully protected?
Schedule a tick prevention consult today at your nearest Healthy Pets of Ohio location.
Because knowledge is power—and prevention is peace of mind.