Tick Trouble in Massachusetts: Local Pets Face High Risk of Lyme Disease and Anaplasmosis

BOSTON, April 2, 2025 – Ticks don’t care if your dog’s a city pup or a country hound—Massachusetts dogs are testing positive for tick-borne diseases at some of the highest rates in the nation. Thrive Pet Healthcare is urging pet owners to protect their dogs year-round, as even a single tick bite can lead to a serious illness.

“Ticks are a growing problem here in Massachusetts, with recent milder winters, and we’re seeing more cases of both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis in dogs every year,” said Dr. Kate Thomas, Medical Director at Wignall Animal Hospital in Dracut, a member of Thrive Pet Healthcare’s community of veterinary hospitals. “These diseases can sneak up on pets without obvious symptoms, any time of year, which is why consistent prevention is so important.”

According to 2024 data from the Companion Animal Parasite Council, 1 in 20 dogs in the U.S. test positive for Lyme disease; however, Massachusetts exceeds this national average, with a statewide rate of 1 in 10 dogs testing positive.

Here’s how the counties rank by Lyme-positive test rate:

Lyme disease can cause fever, joint swelling, lameness, lethargy and, in some cases, kidney damage. If caught early, it’s manageable with treatment.

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne illness that can affect dogs, cats and humans. It can cause fever, lethargy, joint pain, and appetite loss in pets, and flu-like symptoms in people. The national average is 1 in 15 dogs, but Massachusetts counties are reporting much higher numbers.

Here’s how they rank, from highest to lowest dogs testing positive:

“Ticks are incredibly resilient and are becoming resistant to older flea and tick products. Some can survive more than 200 days without feeding,” Dr. Thomas said. “Even in cooler months, we see pets coming in with tick-borne illnesses. That’s why we recommend protection all year long.”

Veterinarian-prescribed preventatives are the most effective way to protect pets from parasites and the diseases they carry. Until June 30, 2025, participating Thrive Pet Healthcare hospitals are offering 15% off in-hospital purchases of popular parasite preventatives, including:

With a Thrive Plus membership, year-round protection is more accessible and affordable for pet parents. Member pets receive unlimited free exams,* $5 basic nail trims, access to a 24/7 pet helpline, and 10% off services like bloodwork, dental cleanings and spay/neuter—making it easier to stay on top of health concerns before they become serious.

Visit thrivepetcare.com to find a location near you that offers primary, specialty, emergency, and urgent veterinary care services, as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals.