Producers urged to watch livestock for ticks

As we move into the heart of summer, I wanted to take a moment to share a few observations and reminders from here at the Extension office.

Over the past month, I’ve received several phone calls from producers who are seeing large numbers of ticks on their horses and cattle — in some cases, enough to be very noticeable at a glance. If you haven’t already, now is the time to make routine tick checks part of your weekly, or even daily, livestock care.

Ticks are more than just a nuisance. They are blood-feeding parasites that can affect both animal comfort and overall health. Some species also are capable of transmitting diseases. As Ohio State University Extension specialists note, proper prevention and prompt removal are key to reducing the risk of infection.

Here in Ohio, we commonly encounter a few key species of concern, including the American dog tick and the blacklegged, or deer, tick. The American dog tick is especially active this time of year and is often picked up in grassy or brushy areas along field edges and pastures.

The blacklegged tick, on the other hand, has become more common over the past decade and can be active for much of the year, especially in wooded areas. This makes it especially important to stay alert — even outside of peak summer months.

Based on the calls I’ve been getting, I strongly encourage everyone to check animals closely, especially around the head, neck, underside and tailhead, monitor areas where animals brush up against vegetation, remove ticks promptly when found and reach out if you’re unsure what you’re dealing with.

If you are seeing ticks on your animals — or just want peace of mind — I’m more than happy to come out for a farm or field visit. We can look at what species you might be dealing with and talk through management options that make sense for your operation.

You can call the office at 330-674-3015 or email me at hill.1357@osu.edu to set something up.

While not directly related to ticks, I also want to flag a developing situation that’s important for livestock owners to be aware of.

On June 8, 2026, USDA confirmed additional cases of New World screwworm in Texas. This pest is very different from ticks, but it can cause serious damage, as the larvae burrow into living tissue and create severe wounds.

Producers should watch for wounds that continue to drain or worsen, maggots or egg masses and unusual signs of irritation or discomfort in animals.

Even though this is not currently an Ohio issue, it is a good reminder of how important it is to routinely check animals and act quickly when something doesn’t look right.

To learn more, attend “Combatting Tick-Borne Pathogens in the Cow Herd” from 6:30-8 p.m. June 25 at J&L Cattle Services in Jeromesville.

This program will cover practical strategies to reduce the impact of ticks and tick-borne disease, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions directly to specialists and veterinarians. Please RSVP to our office at 330-674-3015 if you plan to attend.

This time of year is always busy, but it’s also one of the most important times to stay ahead of potential issues.

Whether it’s ticks, forage quality or general herd health, don’t hesitate to reach out. That’s what we’re here for.

Call us at 330-674-3015 or email me anytime — and if needed, I’m happy to come out and walk through things with you.

Stay safe and enjoy some of the rain we are getting this week.

Janessa Hill is an ANR educator with Holmes County OSU Extension.