How should you properly inspect a dog for ticks? - briefly
Inspect the entire coat, paying special attention to ears, neck, armpits, groin, and between the toes, using fingertips or a fine‑tooth comb to feel for attached parasites. If a tick is found, grasp it with tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure.
How should you properly inspect a dog for ticks? - in detail
A thorough examination for ticks begins with a calm environment and a well‑groomed coat. Use a fine‑toothed comb or gloved hand to separate the hair, allowing clear visibility of the skin.
Focus on the following regions, where ticks most often attach:
- Head and ears, especially the inner surface and behind the ears.
- Neck and collar line.
- Under the armpits and between the front legs.
- Around the belly, particularly the groin and the area under the tail.
- Hindquarters, including the perianal region and the back of the thighs.
- Paws, especially between the pads and around the nails.
Inspect each area methodically, moving the comb slowly from the skin outward. Look for small, rounded bumps, dark spots, or engorged, oval bodies. Ticks may be as small as a grain of sand when unfed; a magnifying glass can aid in detection.
If a tick is found, grasp it with fine‑pointed tweezers as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting that could leave mouthparts embedded. After removal, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic solution and dispose of the tick in sealed material or alcohol.
Record the date, location, and appearance of any removed tick. This information assists veterinarians in assessing disease risk and guides future preventive measures.
Finally, maintain regular grooming sessions, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas. Use veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives—topical treatments, oral medications, or collars—according to the pet’s weight and health status. Consistent inspection combined with preventive products reduces the likelihood of tick‑borne illnesses.