Like humans, our four-legged friends can also get ticks. These pests are more than an annoyance, as they carry diseases that can make your canine companion sick. Fortunately, there are steps you can take as a pet owner to protect your dog from any tick-related diseases or distress. Follow along to learn about ways you can prevent your furball from attracting ticks.
Why Keeping Pets Tick-Free is Important
Ticks are not just a nuisance. If left untreated, ticks carry tick-borne diseases that can make your pup sick. Although you may think ticks are only found in wooded areas, ticks are common everywhere outdoors, whether it be a hiking trail or your backyard. Therefore, checking for ticks regularly is essential.
How to Check for Ticks
For dogs who spend time daily outdoors, it is wise to check them frequently. However, before discussing how to check for ticks, it’s important to know where to look. On our four-legged friends, ticks tend to hide in these areas:
- In and around the ears
- Between the toes
- Under the collar
- Around the tail
- Between the back legs
- Around eyelids
Ticks crawling on or biting a pet can be hard to spot. Run your fingers through their fur and look for small bumps. Be thorough, as some ticks can be small and difficult to spot with the naked eye. Parting the fur with good lighting can help.
How to Remove a Tick
In the off-chance you do find a tick on your pup, and feel comfortable with removing it yourself, follow these steps:
- Identify the perpetrator. Note the date you found the tick. This can be helpful if your dog develops symptoms following removal. If possible, take a photo of the tick to identify it later.
- Use the right equipment. To prevent the spread of bacteria, wear gloves when removing a tick. Although there are tick-removal tools, household tweezers work just as well. Just be sure to sanitize them before and after removal.
- There is a method. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as you can without pinching your pup, and pull upward slowly. Keep your pull straight and steady. Although it may be tricky, try not to crush the pest. Doing so can release unwanted bacteria.
- Practice proper cleanup. Once removed, store the tick in a small container to show your vet. Then, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. It is best to keep an eye on the bite area and your dog’s behavior for the next few days. If you see any signs of irritation or distress, make an appointment with your vet.
Tick Prevention Tips
Administer Tick Prevention Yearly
Perhaps the most important step you can take is tick-prevention medication, which is necessary to deter ticks from your pup. Your vet is a great resource for reliable tick-prevention medication and treatment. How frequently you need to administer this medication depends on the type you get. While chewable tablets offer easy, month-long protection, some topical treatments remain effective for up to 3 months after administration. If you have other pets in your home, ensure they are treated for ticks regularly, too.
Avoid Tick-Prone Areas
Some environments are more hospitable to ticks than others. By avoiding densely wooded areas, you can keep your dog’s potential exposure to ticks to a minimum. Further, you can take steps to make your neck of the woods tick-free. Keep your pup safe from ticks by mowing your lawn and regularly removing leaves and other debris. The less hospitable your yard is to ticks and other pests, the better.
Check Your Dog Regularly
The best way to make sure your pooch doesn’t have ticks is to check them for ticks. Doing so regularly can prevent any pest-related side effects from developing under the radar. Plus, your pup will enjoy the few extra pets from you!
Although ticks can be an annoyance, they do not need to diminish the joys of dog ownership! By following these simple steps, you can protect your furry friend from unwanted pests. With consistency and care, you can keep your pup safe and healthy, ready for the next adventure.