Tick season is in full swing, and while the warmer weather invites more outdoor adventures, it also increases the risk of tick bites for our furry friends. Ticks are not only a nuisance but also a carrier of diseases that can seriously affect your dog's health.
Veterinarian Hannah Godfrey recently shared with the Daily Mail essential tips to protect your pet this season.
Effective Tick Prevention Strategies
Use Tick Prevention Products: Options include tick-repellent collars or topical medications. It's important to choose the right product for your pet, so always consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatment. Remember, products designed for cats should never be used on dogs.
Maintain Your Yard: Keep the grass and bushes trimmed. Ticks thrive in tall grasses and bushy areas, so maintaining your yard can help reduce tick populations.
Regular Checks Post-Walk: After any walk or time spent outside, thoroughly check your dog for ticks. Focus on areas like the ears, neck, underbelly, and between the toes.
If You Find a Tick on Your Dog
Safe Removal is Key: If you spot a tick on your dog, use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool to carefully remove the tick. Grasp the tick as close to your dog's skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause parts of the tick to break off and remain in the skin.
Watch for Symptoms: After removing a tick, keep an eye on your dog for symptoms of tick-borne diseases, such as lethargy, unusual behavior, loss of appetite, fever, or lameness. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian.
The Dangers of Tick-Borne Diseases
Ticks can transmit several diseases that can be harmful and even fatal to pets. Lyme disease, for instance, can lead to severe anemia and organ failure if left untreated. In some cases, tick bites can cause paralysis, particularly if the tick is not removed promptly.
