Expert Advice on How to Spot and Treat Ticks on Dogs

Published by Connor Bainton,

When spring finally arrives, your dog is at constant risk of getting ticks. These blood-suckers look nasty but moreover, they are hard to remove. Left too long or not removed completely, these buggers can cause some serious irritations and a range of serious diseases like Lyme disease and tick paralysis. Thicks present a health risk not just for your dog but for your as well. They can feed on blood for several hours or even for weeks and then lay off thousands of eggs. Although they are mostly present during the warmer months in spring and summer, they still threat in many places all year-round.

When it's time to visit a veterinarian



If you note that your dog's tick infections become severe and there are more ticks on his body, you should spend no time and get your pet to the vet. This is a situation when your dog must be treated with insecticide and depending on the situation he may need to take more than one treatment to completely eradicate the ticks. This usually happens with homeless dogs, those who live outside or suffer from neglect. However, this can also occur to a home dog that can accidentally enter the heavily tick-infested area. Aside from this, some of the other reasons you need to visit a vet are redness or swelling a the side of the tick bite that lasts about three days after tick removal, one or more ticks in the ear canal, changes in the health and behaviour of your dog after the tick bite or in case you note some of the symptoms of tick-borne diseases likeLyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever or tularemia.

Treatments for ticks on dogs



If you use a wide-tooth comb for fleas on your dog after a walk, there are great chances that you will discover any tick of his coat. For your protection, make sure you wear long pants and socks. If you live in a house, make sure you keep tall grass mowed to discourage ticks from laying down eggs on your backyards. You can also use some pet-approved insecticides for tick control, but their benefits can be short-lived as some ticks spend part of their lifecycle underground which keeps them safe from any treatment. When it comes to tick dog treatment you have a few different options.

  • Topical treatment - This tick dog treatment is one of the most popular among dog owners. These products are considered very effective in treating ticks and once you buy them they will last you for a month or so. It is because the dosage varies depending on the dog's weight. Some of these products are 2 in 1, means they also kill fleas. Some people are concerned about using this dog flea and tick treatment as they fear that these medications are toxic and will harm their dog. If you are also in doubt, bring yourself peace of mind simply by talking with your veterinarian.
  • Sprays - Applying sprays require for a bit more work. You should spray all areas of the body but be very careful around ears and eyes. For how long the effect of the spray last varies depending on the brand and the ingredients. So, read the label and the instructions carefully. Also, if you decide to use spray make sure you apply it in a well-ventilated area.
  • Powders - They are easier to use compared to sprays but they are a bit messy. If unfortunately, you have a dog that suffers from asthma powder is definitely not your option of tick dog treatment. Again, make sure you read the instruction carefully so you know how long the powder will stay effective and how much you should apply.
  • Shampoos and dips - These products are usually used for a dog that is already infested with ticks. You should apply it well across the entire body of the dog and leave it for a certain period of time, at least for ten minutes. Be careful around the eyes and avoid getting it in their ears.
  • Collars - Tick collars are another solution you can consider but they become less effective after getting wet. So maybe is not a good idea to bathe or let your dog swim with the collar. Read for how long the collar remains active. When placing it around your dog's neck, make sure it snugs perfectly but not too much as there still needs to be room for about two fingers between.

Home tick treatments



Always examine your pet after a walk. Usually, the most common places where ticks like to settle is around the ears and face, between the toes and in the armpits or groin area. Ticks can be so small that you can't even notice them (about a size of the head of a pin) or they can be larger about half size of a ladybug. Unfortunately, it's easier to note ticks when they are already latched on. By feeling the skin of your dog, you can find a tiny lump that feels like a small burr. If you find an untouched tick you can remove it using a tick removal tool or a pair of tweezers. Because the blood of a tick si dangerous make sure you don't crush it with your fingers.

When you are doing this, keep yourself safe by wearing rubber or surgical gloves. In case the tick's head remains in the dog's skin, you may be able to remove it with tweezers if not it may come out on its own. However, is it always recomended to visit a vet to check the dog and give advice on what you should do next. If your pet had ticks, make a thoughtful cleaning to his bedding area. Ticks, similar to feels, usually do not spread beyond the bed of the pet.

Regardless of which tick and flea treatment for dogs you choose for your furry friend, make sure you consult with your vet first. He/she will advise you and help you make a more informed decision and choose the most appropriate product for your dog.