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Warmer temperatures mean more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, but it also means having to protect yourself and your pets from diseases that can be carried by ticks and mosquitoes. The Iowa Department of Public Health urges people to reduce their exposure to ticks or mosquitoes by using an approved insect repellent, reducing items or locations that collect water where mosquitoes breed, and checking yourself and your pets for ticks.

Dr. Glenda Van Wyk of Tri-County Veterinary Clinic in Pella adds that there are a variety of products available for pets that prevent mosquitoes and ticks, including Frontline, which prevents fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes and ticks can carry heart worm and Lyme diseases, and Dr. Van Wyk encourages pet owners to talk with their local veterinarian about ways to keep their pets safe and healthy.