How to find ticks on dogs? - briefly
Inspect the animal closely, especially the ears, neck, armpits, groin, and toe webs, feeling for small, engorged or moving specks with a fine‑toothed comb or fingertips. If a parasite is found, grasp it near the skin with tweezers and pull straight out to remove it safely.
How to find ticks on dogs? - in detail
Detecting ticks on canine companions requires a systematic approach that combines visual inspection, tactile assessment, and awareness of high‑risk areas. Begin by restraining the animal in a calm environment; a leash, harness, or assistance from another person can prevent sudden movements. Use a bright light source and a fine‑toothed comb to examine the coat thoroughly.
Focus on regions where ticks commonly attach:
- Between the shoulder blades and along the spine
- Inside the ears and ear flaps
- Under the collar, especially around the neck and throat
- In the armpits and groin folds
- Around the tail base and hindquarters
- Between the toes and on the paw pads
Run the comb slowly over each area, feeling for small, firm bumps that may be missed by the eye. If a tick is suspected but not visible, gently part the hair and press the skin with a fingertip; the tick’s body will often be palpable as a raised nodule.
When a tick is found, use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool. Grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible, applying steady upward pressure without twisting. After extraction, clean the bite site with antiseptic and store the specimen in a sealed container for identification if needed.
Repeat the inspection weekly during peak tick season and after any outdoor activity in wooded or grassy environments. Regular grooming, maintaining a short coat, and checking the dog after each walk reduce the likelihood of unnoticed infestations.