Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that belong to the arachnid family, which also includes spiders and mites. They attach themselves to the skin of animals and humans to feed on their blood. Ticks can be found in grassy or wooded areas, making outdoor activities like hiking or camping a potential risk for tick bites. These tiny creatures can carry diseases, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be harmful to both humans and pets. It's important to check for ticks after spending time outdoors and to remove them promptly using tweezers to prevent any potential health issues.