How should subcutaneous ticks in dogs be treated: which medications? - briefly
Use systemic isoxazoline agents (e.g., fluralaner, afoxolaner, sarolaner) or topical spot‑on formulations containing fipronil, selamectin, or imidacloprid to eliminate subcutaneous ticks in dogs, following the veterinarian‑recommended dosage and interval. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential to confirm treatment efficacy and monitor for adverse reactions.
How should subcutaneous ticks in dogs be treated: which medications? - in detail
Treating subcutaneous tick infestations in dogs requires systemic acaricidal agents that reach the parasite through the bloodstream. Oral isoxazoline products are the primary choice because they provide rapid kill rates and maintain efficacy for weeks.
- Afoxolaner – administered at 2.5 mg/kg once every 30 days. Effective against all life stages of common tick species. Contraindicated in dogs with a history of seizures.
- Fluralaner – dosage of 25–56 mg/kg given orally every 12 weeks. Provides extended coverage; safe for most breeds, including geriatric animals.
- Sarolaner – 2–4 mg/kg once monthly. Broad‑spectrum activity; monitor for gastrointestinal upset in sensitive dogs.
- Lotilaner – 20 mg/kg monthly. Rapid onset of action; avoid in puppies under 8 weeks or weighing less than 2 kg.
Topical spot‑on formulations also reach subcutaneous ticks via transdermal absorption:
- Selamectin – 6 mg/kg applied to the dorsal neck skin monthly. Effective against ticks, fleas, and some internal parasites. Do not use on dogs with known hypersensitivity to macrocyclic lactones.
- Imidacloprid + moxidectin – 10 mg/kg imidacloprid and 2.5 mg/kg moxidectin applied monthly. Provides tick kill and heartworm prevention; caution in collie‑type breeds due to potential MDR1 gene sensitivity.
Injectable options are limited; ivermectin at low doses (0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously) can reduce tick burden but is not first‑line because of variable efficacy and risk of neurotoxicity in MDR1‑deficient dogs.
Selection of a medication should consider:
- Body weight and age – ensure dosage calculations are precise; puppies and very small dogs may require reduced‑dose formulations.
- Health status – liver or kidney disease may necessitate adjusted dosing or alternative agents.
- Breed‑specific sensitivities – collies, Australian shepherds, and related breeds require avoidance of ivermectin‑containing products.
- Concurrent parasite control – choose a product that also covers fleas, heartworm, or intestinal worms when appropriate.
After administration, inspect the animal for attached ticks. Remove any visible specimens with fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling straight upward to avoid mouth‑part rupture. Dispose of removed ticks safely.
Monitor the dog for adverse reactions for 24–48 hours. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset, transient lethargy, or pruritus at the application site. Severe signs—vomiting, ataxia, or seizures—require immediate veterinary intervention.
Regular re‑treatment according to the product’s interval maintains protective blood levels, prevents re‑infestation, and reduces the risk of tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Veterinary guidance is essential for optimal drug choice, especially in dogs with comorbidities or those on other medications.