Have you recently been bitten by a tick? If so, you’re not the only one. Though ticks are prevalent all year long in Kentucky, they are much more active during the warmer months. The tiny parasites are more commonly found in wooded, brushy and grassy areas. However, they can be found in your favorite park and even your own backyard.

Ticks can spread diseases to both dogs and people, and can transmit a number of illnesses including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF). If you are bitten by a tick, or discover one, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is asking you to share it with us for identification purposes.

Since the “Spot a Tick and Share Program” launched last year, LMPHW has tested more than 170 ticks. Results are being used to create a map of where ticks are being reported to enhance our education and outreach efforts.

To submit a tick, place it in a small leak-proof container and cover the sample with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Label the container with your name on it, along with this completed form, and drop off the sample to LMPHW at 400 E. Gray St. Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. To learn more about how to submit a tick properly, click here.

To protect yourself from getting bitten, remember the T-I-C-K rules of thumb:

• Take precautions and wear insect repellent.
• Inspect your body for ticks and rashes after being outdoors.
• Carefully remove the head and body of the tick.
• Keep monitoring your health for fever, body aches and rashes and seek medical attention if they develop.

For more information about ticks, prevention tips and proper removal, visit LMPHW’s webpage.

Metro Animal Services is committed to saving more lives by making every effort to find homes for our adoptable pets. When you adopt from LMAS, you will be rescuing a homeless pet from your community. LMAS has found homes for thousands of pets through free and donation-based adoption programs. 

LMAS adoptions are far less expensive than purchasing a pet from a breeder or other animal organizations. Our adoption package is worth at least $500 in savings. Spay/neuter surgery, microchip and up-to-date vaccinations are always included.

Choose from the largest selection of adoptable pets in the region. Meet our adoptable pets at Animal House Adoption Center. You can also visit one of our satellite locations: PetSmart (Outer Loop) and Lucky Cat Cafe & Lounge. LMAS also offers pet adoptions at community events throughout the year.  

LMAS Harshaw Family Foundation Animal Shelter:

3528 Newburg Road Louisville, KY 40218 Monday – Saturday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Closed Sundays and some holidays.

Louisville Metro Animal Services is committed to saving more lives by making every effort to find homes for our adoptable pets. When you adopt from LMAS, you will be rescuing a homeless pet from your community. LMAS has found homes for thousands of pets through free and donation-based adoption programs. 

LMAS adoptions are far less expensive than purchasing a pet from a breeder or other animal organizations. Our adoption package is worth at least $500 in savings. Spay/neuter surgery, microchip and up-to-date vaccinations are always included. 

For questions about our adoption process, view our list of frequently asked questions.

For more information about an adoptable pet, contact us.