Ticks!

Ticks are ectoparasites (parasites that live on the outside of the body) that feed on the blood of mammals, or ‘hosts’, such as dogs and humans.

Ticks are classified as arachnids, like mites and spiders. Tick species’, such as the brown dog tick and the American dog tick are both common examples of ticks that affect both canines and felines. Ticks such as these require three ‘feedings’ of their host’s blood daily.

Being that tick presence varies according to where you live, what time of the year it is (tick presence varies in warm and cool weather), your pet’s habits and your method and frequency of tick preventative product use.

Ticks attach themselves to your pet by inserting their mouth into your dog’s skin via barbed spikes, followed by the commencement of feeding. Many ticks can also produce a glue-like substance to stay attached.

What Can a Tick Do To My Pet?

Ticks are highly capable of causing many different diseases in your pet. Although rare, ticks can consume enough of a host’s blood to cause anemia. Certain female ticks can cause a rare paralysis in their host from a toxin they produce during feeding. But the disease most familiar to pet owners is Lyme Disease. Another serious disease is Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Lyme Disease can cause arthritis and swelling of joints that can result in lameness. Rocky Mountain spotted fever can cause fever, lameness and other serious ailments. Along with these, ticks can transmit other serious diseases to your dog or cat. Your veterinarian can answer any questions you may have concerning ticks and the different diseases they can carry.

Preventing Ticks and Knowing Their Routine

It might be surprising to know that it is very difficult to prevent your pet’s exposure to ticks. Whether going on walks, hikes, or other outdoor activities, ticks can always attach themselves to your pet. The best way to prevent ticks is with regular tick control use. Your veterinarian can help you with deciding the best product for your dog or your cat and their current situation. Your veterinarian is also knowledgeable of the specific diseases common in your area that can pose a risk for your pet.

While ticks can be found everywhere, warm climates and certain rural and wooded areas, especially in the Northeast, are places where ticks are more present and can increase your pet’s exposure rate.

How To Know If Your Pet Has Ticks and How To Remove Them

Ticks are visible, so it is a good idea to check your pet regularly. If you happen to find one, be careful when removing it, because any contact with the tick’s blood can potentially transmit their infectious diseases onto your pet, or even you.

Before you start, treat the area where the tick is with rubbing alcohol and remove it with tweezers. Make sure that you have removed the biting head and any other body parts. It may only take a few hours for disease from the tick to be transmitted to your pet, it is preferred that you take your pet to the veterinarian for evaluation through blood tests following the removal of the tick. They will also recommend a tick preventative for the future.