From violent storms to shrinking ice caps, we see the dramatic effects of climate change all around us. But subtler changes much closer to home could also impact your health — and that of your furry friend.

Like lots of creatures, ticks love basking in mild weather. And as temperatures have crept up over the years, research suggests that ticks now emerge from the spring thaw closer to April than May. Milder temperatures also allow these stealthy little bloodsuckers to hike farther north and into higher altitudes.

Even worse, where ticks go, tick-borne diseases are sure to follow. And as temperatures rise, so does the risk of serious infections like Lyme disease.

So do your furry friend a favor and get ticked off. Wherever you live, use tick-preventative treatments before disease spreads to your pet.