How can I know if a dog has subcutaneous ticks? - briefly
Check the skin for localized swelling, tenderness, or a small, firm lump that may feel like a pinhead under the fur, and observe any unexplained itching, licking, or limping. If these signs appear, have a veterinarian perform a thorough palpation or diagnostic imaging (e.g., ultrasound) to confirm the presence of embedded ticks.
How can I know if a dog has subcutaneous ticks? - in detail
Detecting ticks that have migrated beneath a dog’s skin requires careful observation and systematic examination.
Visible signs may include localized swelling, a firm nodule, or a small, raised area that feels like a lump. The skin over the lesion can appear reddened, warm, or ulcerated. In some cases, the dog may exhibit scratching, licking, or a change in gait if the tick is near a joint.
A thorough physical inspection should follow these steps:
- Part the fur in a systematic pattern, starting from the head and moving toward the tail, using a fine-toothed comb to expose the skin.
- Palpate each region with the pads of the fingers, applying gentle pressure to feel for irregularities or firm masses.
- Focus on typical attachment sites such as the ears, neck, armpits, groin, and between the toes.
- If a nodule is detected, press lightly to see if a small punctum or a dark spot becomes visible, indicating the tick’s mouthparts.
When a suspect lesion is found, additional diagnostic tools can clarify the presence of a hidden tick:
- Dermatoscopy – a handheld magnifier with polarized light reveals the tick’s outline beneath the epidermis.
- Ultrasound – high‑frequency probes detect hyperechoic structures consistent with tick bodies, especially useful for deep locations.
- Fine‑needle aspiration – a sterile needle extracts fluid from the nodule; microscopic examination can identify tick fragments or associated inflammatory cells.
If any of these methods confirm a subdermal tick, immediate removal is essential to prevent disease transmission. Removal should be performed by a veterinarian using sterile instruments, ensuring the mouthparts are extracted intact to avoid secondary infection.
Regular preventive measures—monthly tick preventatives, routine grooming, and frequent environmental checks—reduce the likelihood of hidden infestations and simplify early detection.