Ticks transmit many parasitic, bacterial, viral and other diseases, such as Lyme disease, among animals and from animals to humans. The salivary secretions of some female ticks are toxic and can produce a syndrome known as “tick paralysis”.
Tick exposure can lead to a variety of diseases. In addition to Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ticks transmit:
- Anaplasmosis
- Babesiosis
- Ehrlichiosis
- Mycoplasmosis
The next time you’re preparing for a hike with your dog, don’t forget about tick prevention.
Tick Bite Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms in dogs include:
- Arthritis or lameness that lasts for three to four days
- Reluctance to move
- Paralysis
- Swollen joints
- Fever, fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodesLoss of appetite
- Neurological problems
Even after you remove the tick, you should monitor your dog.
Tick Prevention Medication is Essential
There are products available that repel or prevent ticks from attaching, and products that kill ticks within hours after they have attached. Of course, regional risks and a pet’s lifestyle should always be considered when determining which product to use.
Many people use tick collars. Our top choice is the Preventic collar, which provides full protection against ticks within 48 hours of placement, and lasts for up to 90 days. Before using any flea or tick product, speak with your veterinarian.
It is important that you use any tick product according to the directions on their labels. Read any package inserts and follow all veterinary instructions, especially with puppies and small breed dogs.
WARNING!
These drugs are only for use on dogs, so don’t give them to your cats. These canine products can be deadly to cats. If your cat needs tick protection, get one from your vet that is made specifically for cats.
Safely Removing a Tick from Your Dog
If you do find a tick on your dog, this video from the SPCA shows you how to remove it.
Every time you get back from a hike or spending time outdoors with your dog examine him for ticks. Look in your dog’s ears and under their arms as ticks particularly like places on your dog’s body that are especially warm.
Start with gloves, a tick remover or tweezers, and isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, which you can find at any drugstore. It’s a good idea to keep the tick and bring it to your veterinarian if you have concerns.
Ticks spread the same diseases to people, so always wear gloves!
There are two methods depending on what tools you’re using. Clean either the tweezers or tick remover with the alcohol.
Tweezers
- Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible.
- Pull it out in a straight, steady motion.
Tick Remover
- Gently press the remover against your pet’s skin near the tick.
- Slide the notch of the remover under the tick, pulling it free.
Questions for Your Vet
The next time you’re at the vet, ask them some of the following questions and get organized for future trips and hikes. Tick-borne diseases can be avoided.
- What ticks live in your region?
- Are indoor pets vulnerable?
- What about a monthly preventative? Seasonal?
- If I find a tick, should I come straight in, or wait for symptoms?
- Does your vet have any preferred tick prevention products?
The warm months from spring to autumn are the best time of the year for dog owners to be out with their four-legged friends. With a little planning, you and your pup can safely enjoy the outdoors together.