Tulsa Doctors, Vets Urge Precaution As Tick Season Arrives Early

The nice weather is bringing out the ticks- 6 weeks earlier than normal. Doctors and veterinarians from two states are in Tulsa to raise awareness.

03/29/2012 Related Story: Experts Predict 'Horrific' Tick Season In Oklahoma 

Veterinarians and Physicians teamed up at the Tulsa Convention Center for the first ever One Health Conference

The idea is that together, they can help track and treat diseases that are happening on both ends of the spectrum, pets and people.

Oklahoma is known for having a high tick population and this year they're out earlier than ever. The mild winter, warm spring and recent precipitation are being credited for the early arrival.

The biggest concern: the diseases they carry that are sometimes fatal.

"The ticks actually secrete a little antiseptic when they attach and so you don't feel them bite," Dr. Susan Little said.

Once they bite, potentially fatal tick-borne diseases, like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can spread within hours.

If symptoms show up, getting treatment quickly is the key to survival.

"Anytime someone develops a fever or a rash they need to get to a physician and get treated with antibiotics - same thing with your dog," Dr. Little said.

So, whether you're skin is crawling or not, your best line of defense is to stay on top of the ticks and check yourself and your pet anytime you come in from outside. 

Wearing light colored clothing outdoors will help you to see the ticks before they attach, and repellant will also help fight them off.

If a tick does attach to you or your pet, the best thing you can do is remove it using tweezers.