Ticks are parasitic arachnids that can attach to your dog’s skin and feed on their blood. Ticks are often found in wooded areas or areas with long grass, and they are most active in the spring and summer months. Ticks can transmit several serious diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Here are some ways to know if your dog has ticks:
Signs of Tick Infestation
- Visible Ticks: The most obvious sign of a tick infestation is the presence of a tick on your dog’s skin. Ticks can be as small as a pinhead or as large as a grape once engorged with blood.
- Lumps or Bumps on the Skin: A tick’s bite may cause a small lump or bump in the skin where it is attached. The bump may be visible or felt as a hard knot under the fur.
- Excessive Scratching or Grooming: If your dog is scratching, biting, or licking a particular area more than usual, it could be due to a tick bite.
- Lethargy or Unexplained Fever: If your dog has a fever, is unusually tired, or seems off, it may be due to a tick-borne illness. In such cases, it is important to take your dog to the vet.
- Redness or Inflammation Around the Bite: Ticks can cause irritation, redness, or inflammation at the site of attachment.
How to Check for Ticks
- Check Your Dog’s Body: Ticks like to attach to places with less fur, such as the ears, armpits, groin area, between the toes, and around the neck.
- Use a Fine-Toothed Comb: A fine-toothed comb can help you gently comb through your dog’s fur and check for ticks, especially in thick or long coats.
- Look for Raised Skin: As you run your hands along your dog’s body, check for areas where the skin is raised, which may indicate a tick.
Removing Ticks Safely
If you find a tick on your dog, remove it immediately by using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull it out gently, and dispose of it properly. Clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly after removing the tick. If you are unsure how to remove a tick, or if the tick’s head remains embedded in your dog’s skin, seek veterinary assistance.