Ticks a reason magazine says Delaware is an unhealthy place for dogs

A magazine that showcases purebred dogs has named Delaware as one of the three worst states for dog health.

Among knocks on the first state: it ranked number seven for tick observations per capita, according to the study promoted by Showsight Magazine.

How was the study conducted?

Showsight Magazine's rankings are based off various measurements it says are relevant to dog health.

Those include:

• The average annual temperature and humidity.
• Air quality scores.
• The water quality in states' rivers and lakes.
• Disease rates among dogs in various states.
• The number of tick observations were calculated on iNaturalist, a social media application for people to learn more about nature and share sightings.

The magazine assigned a weight to all of these factors to create a one through 10 scoring system and rank each state.

Why does Delaware rank low? Ticks.

Delaware's overall score was a 3.30 out of 10, the third lowest in the country behind California and West Virginia.

“Delaware presents a mixed bag for dog owners,” the Showrunner website states.

The magazine noted Delaware's long tick and flee season and the high observation rate of ticks. Delaware ranked seventh-highest in the nation for tick sightings per capita with 26.4 tick sightings per 100,000 people. Vermont had the highest rate with 149 sightings per 100,000 people.

Other info: It's tick season: What types live in your area and how to keep them under control

The magazine also noted that Delaware has a high percentage of so-called “impaired” rivers, which are bodies of water the federal government classifies as polluted. This limits water-based activities for pups, the magazine said.

“On a positive note, the state’s moderate temperature and humidity levels may provide a comfortable environment for many double-coated breeds,” the magazine's study website states.

The full rankings can be found here.

Are ticks dangerous to dogs?

Ticks can be harmful to dogs and they also bring them in your home, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control. The CDC states that there are no vaccines available for many tick-borne illnesses contracted by dogs.

Dogs that are infected by such an illness may not show symptoms for one to three weeks or even longer following the bite.

“Watch your dog closely for changes in behavior or appetite if you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a tick,” the CDC said.

Other tips include:

• Check your pets after spending time outdoors.
• Quickly remove any ticks you find.
• Reduce tick habitats in your yard.

Reporting from USA Today contributed to this article.