Tick prevention notice
Our goal is always the health and well-being of your dog and every dog in our care. That is why we are asking you to read this carefully.
2026 is a record year for ticks in Montana. A mild winter followed by an early spring created the perfect storm, and tick activity is already unusually high. We take that seriously because every dog in our care shares the same space.
And before you think this does not apply to your dog because he only goes outside to potty and comes right back in, think again. Ticks are no longer just a hiking trail problem. They are showing up in residential yards, on neighborhood lawns, and in the grass right outside your front door. If your dog goes outside, your dog is at risk. It is that simple this year.
We want to be upfront about something. We do not typically recommend chemical tick prevention treatments and we understand that many of our clients share that hesitation. These are not decisions we take lightly. But this year is different.
If you choose to treat, please use an oral treatment only. No topical applications, no sprays, and no flea and tick collars. Do not pick up something off the shelf at Walmart, the feed store, or anywhere else. There is one type of product we will recognize and that is a long-acting oral preventative prescribed by your veterinarian. Ask about Bravecto, Credelio, or NexGard. Bravecto is one chewable dose that covers 12 weeks. Credelio and NexGard are monthly. All three require a prescription. Your vet needs to be part of this conversation. We are not telling you to run out and get it without that conversation. We are telling you to have the conversation before your dog’s stay.
We are not requiring tick prevention. That is your decision and your vet’s.
What we are telling you is that if your dog arrives with ticks, you may be subject to a contamination risk fee starting at $300, which must be paid before pickup. The math on that is pretty simple.
