Veterinarian Jennifer Kennedy checks a client for ticks at Butler Veterinary Associates in Center Township on June 8. Justin Guido/Butler Eagle

As the weather warms up, residents want to spend more quality time outdoors with their pets. Unfortunately, that also means an increased risk of tick bites.

Many news outlets across the country have reported the mild winter has led to a growth in the tick population and ticks being active earlier. That means the summer months could include an increase in tick bites as well.

Jennifer Kennedy, a veterinarian at Butler Veterinary Associates in Center Township, confirmed that cases of Lyme disease have risen over the past few years, and they are now recommending annual tests for pets, instead of once every two years.