Indeed, birds may be the primary means by which the ticks are spread from one area to another. The tick prefers deer for reproduction, but will utilize other animals when few deer are present. Heart, kidney, liver, eye and nervous system problems can develop. Laminitis is reported in horses and cows, as are poor fertility, abortions, and chronic weight loss. Temperament changes have been reported in dogs and horses.
Untreated animals can develop chronic progressive arthritis.
If you travel into tick infested areas with your animals, it is possible to bring ticks home on the animals that will infest your premises. If animals in your area develop Lyme disease it should alert you that you are also at risk. Because the ticks are so small, you must look very carefully. Remove any ticks found and save for identification. To protect animals from infection and to keep them from bringing ticks home requires regular use of tick repellent and control products plus daily examination for ticks.