TICKS

Ticks

Symptoms

Ticks are external parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts, which can include dogs, cats, and humans. While they are small, their presence can lead to noticeable symptoms:

  • Visible ticks attached to the skin (especially around the ears, neck, belly, and between toes)
  • Itching or irritation at the site of attachment
  • Redness, swelling, or scabbing at the bite site
  • Weakness or lethargy in severe infestations
  • Signs of tick-borne diseases (such as fever, joint pain, or loss of appetite)

Transmission

Ticks are most commonly picked up in wooded areas, tall grass, leaf piles, or shrubs where they lie in wait for a passing host. Once attached, ticks can feed for several days before falling off. They are most active in warmer months but can survive year-round in some climates.

Ticks not only cause irritation but can also transmit dangerous diseases, including:

  • Lyme disease
  • Ehrlichiosis
  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever
  • Anaplasmosis

Diagnosis

Finding ticks on your dog requires a thorough inspection, especially after time spent outdoors. Run your fingers through your dog’s coat and pay close attention to areas ticks prefer, such as:

  • Around the ears and eyes
  • Between the toes
  • Under the collar or harness
  • Along the belly and groin area

Tick-borne diseases are typically diagnosed with blood tests, especially if symptoms such as fever, lameness, or lethargy occur after a tick bite.

Treatment

Tick Removal:

  • Use tweezers or a tick removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
  • Pull upward with steady pressure; avoid twisting or jerking, as this can cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off.
  • Clean the bite area with soap and water, then disinfect.

Medications and Prevention:

  • Topical treatments, such as Frontline® or Advantix®, are applied to the skin to kill and repel ticks.
  • Oral medications like Simparica®, NexGard®, or Bravecto® are effective for long-term prevention.
  • Tick collars, such as Seresto®, provide months of protection when fitted correctly.

Treatment for tick-borne diseases depends on the specific illness and often involves antibiotics like doxycycline. Early detection is critical for successful recovery.

Prevention

Ticks are persistent pests, but there are ways to reduce your dog’s exposure:

  • Keep your lawn mowed and remove leaf litter or tall grass from your yard.
  • Avoid walking your dog in heavily wooded or grassy areas during peak tick season.
  • Use veterinarian-recommended tick preventatives year-round, especially if you live in a tick-prone region.
  • Check your dog for ticks daily and after outdoor activities.

Key Points to Remember

  • Ticks can survive indoors for short periods, so vacuum your home regularly and wash your dog’s bedding often.
  • Some dogs may not show immediate symptoms of tick-borne diseases, so routine checkups and blood tests are essential.
  • Not all tick-borne illnesses are preventable, but early removal of ticks can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Where to Find Preventatives

For effective tick prevention products, visit the Shopping List section on my website for links to trusted brands and recommendations. Protect your pup and keep them safe year-round!