How do ticks manifest in dogs: symptoms and treatment? - briefly
Ticks produce localized itching, redness, and a small dark bump where they attach, and can provoke fever, lethargy, appetite loss, or anemia if the infestation is heavy. Immediate removal with fine tweezers, followed by a veterinarian‑prescribed antiparasitic treatment and supportive care, typically eliminates the problem.
How do ticks manifest in dogs: symptoms and treatment? - in detail
Ticks attach to canine skin, feed on blood, and release saliva containing pathogens. The attachment site typically appears as a small, raised bump that may become swollen, reddened, or ulcerated. Localized inflammation often accompanies the bite, producing itching or discomfort that the animal may scratch or bite at.
Common clinical signs include:
- Persistent scratching or licking of a specific area
- Visible engorged arthropod on the skin surface
- Red or inflamed lesions surrounding the attachment point
- Hair loss or crust formation at the bite site
- Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite in advanced cases
- Joint swelling, lameness, or stiffness indicating possible transmission of Lyme‑disease‑causing bacteria
- Neurological abnormalities such as tremors, ataxia, or facial paralysis when tick‑borne encephalitis occurs
Diagnostic evaluation begins with a thorough physical examination to locate attached ticks and assess skin lesions. Laboratory testing may be required to confirm infection, including serology for Borrelia burgdorferi, PCR for Ehrlichia or Anaplasma, and complete blood count to detect anemia or platelet abnormalities.
Treatment protocol comprises several steps:
- Immediate removal of all attached ticks using fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool; grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull steadily without twisting.
- Topical antiseptic application to the bite site to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
- Administration of appropriate acaricidal medication—oral, topical, or collar‑based formulations—to eliminate any remaining ectoparasites and provide ongoing protection.
- If a vector‑borne disease is diagnosed, initiate specific antimicrobial therapy: doxycycline for Lyme disease, doxycycline or tetracycline for ehrlichiosis, and supportive care as indicated.
- Pain management and anti‑inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and improve comfort.
- Regular monitoring of clinical signs and repeat laboratory testing to confirm resolution of infection.
Preventive measures reduce the risk of infestation and disease transmission. Year‑round tick control products, environmental management to limit tick habitats, and routine inspection of the dog’s coat after outdoor activities constitute an effective strategy.