How is a subcutaneous tick treated in dogs? - briefly
Remove the tick surgically under sterile conditions, typically using a scalpel or fine forceps, and administer a short course of antibiotics and anti‑inflammatory medication to prevent infection and tissue reaction. Monitor the incision site for swelling, discharge, or fever and arrange a veterinary follow‑up to confirm complete resolution.
How is a subcutaneous tick treated in dogs? - in detail
Subcutaneous tick infestations require prompt removal and supportive care to prevent systemic complications. The first step is to locate the embedded tick by palpating the skin, especially in areas where the animal shows swelling, heat, or pain. Once identified, a veterinarian should perform a surgical excision under sterile conditions.
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Anesthesia and preparation – administer a short‑acting injectable anesthetic or provide a local block to minimize discomfort. Clip and disinfect the surrounding hair and skin with an antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine).
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Incision and extraction – make a small, vertical skin incision directly over the tick’s body. Using fine forceps, grasp the tick’s mouthparts and gently pull it out in one motion, avoiding rupture. If the tick is deeply embedded, a blunt probe may be used to separate surrounding tissue before extraction.
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Wound management – irrigate the cavity with sterile saline, then close the incision with absorbable sutures or skin staples, depending on size. Apply a topical antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage.
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Systemic therapy – prescribe a broad‑spectrum antibiotic (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) for 7–10 days to address potential bacterial infection. In regions where tick‑borne diseases are prevalent, consider prophylactic treatment with doxycycline (5 mg/kg PO q12h for 14 days) to cover pathogens such as Ehrlichia or Anaplasma.
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Pain control – provide an NSAID (e.g., carprofen 4 mg/kg PO q24h) for 3–5 days, adjusting dosage for the dog’s weight and renal status.
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Monitoring – schedule a follow‑up exam within 48 hours to assess wound healing and check for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge). Conduct blood work if systemic illness is suspected.
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Prevention – maintain regular topical or oral tick preventatives, keep the dog’s environment free of wildlife reservoirs, and perform routine skin inspections after outdoor activities.
Correct execution of each step reduces the risk of secondary bacterial infection, minimizes tissue damage, and prevents the transmission of tick‑borne pathogens.