Ticks and Dogs
Ticks are another common problem that every dog owner needs to be aware of.
Tick-borne disease is an increasing risk to UK dogs and their owners. Ticks can transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis. Some of these can be deadly. If you regularly walk through long grass, parks, meadows or woodland, it may only be a matter of time before your dog is exposed to ticks. Once attached to your dog’s skin, ticks engorge themselves on your pet’s blood and it’s during this time that ticks can transmit deadly diseases.
Whilst feeding, they look like warts and grow in size, and although they will eventually fall off when full, quick removal is essential.
Ticks are the main disease spreader in domestic animals and pass on diseases from one animal to another.
How to remove a Tick from your Pet
Although ticks need to be removed quickly, it needs to be done carefully to prevent creating more problems for you and your pet.
- You can buy a tick remover from your veterinary surgery.
- Select the large or small hook depending on the size of the tick.
- Place the hook underneath the tick’s body part.
- Twist the hook to release the mouthparts whilst gently lifting the tick away.
- Turn over the hook and look for the tick’s head and legs to ensure it has been completely removed.
- Clean the area with warm salt water.
- DO NOT USE TWEEZERS! The body part will become detached from the head, leaving the mouthparts still intact. This often causes an infection requiring antibiotics.
If in any doubt, our veterinary nurses will be happy to help you.
Prevention
Certain flea treatments can prevent and kill ticks, so ask your vet for advice on which one would be best for your dog.
