Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Life In Black And White And White And Black

It's officially that time of the year once again - when ticks crawl the earth to find a host, feed on blood and maybe spread their pathogens.

Don't let them come home on you or your dogs - use a topical preventative (such as Frontline) according to the manufacturer's recommendations (or ask your vet) - and be vigilant about doing a tick check every day.

Ticks are carriers of Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and other nasties, sometimes several strains at the same time. Don't handle ticks if possible. Pry one loose using a device or a pair of good quality tweezers (don't squeeze.) And the best way to dispose of them is to drop into alcohol and cap the container.

The Tick Key is one clever tick removal device made in Connecticut - light, flat and is easy to carry in a wallet.

A few tips: Stay away from high grass and the edges of woods and leaves. Sometimes the walkways through town are the worst spots since tall weeds thrive near these paved paths.

Maybe it's a good time to just soak up some history and until the mowers catch up with all that vibrant spring growth.

One of my favorite places is Wethersfield, Connecticut.

Members of the Wethersfield Historical Society will lead informative tours through Old Wethersfield on Thursday, May 13 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. or Saturday, May 15, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Walk the village and listen to stories about the architecture and people who lived in town long ago. Guests should meet in front of the Keeney Center on Main Street. Wear comfortable walking shoes. (Rain cancels.)

Fee charged.