How to treat subcutaneous tick in a Yorkshire Terrier? - briefly
A veterinarian should surgically remove the embedded tick, then prescribe a brief course of antibiotics and anti‑inflammatory medication, while the incision is cleaned daily and monitored until fully healed.
How to treat subcutaneous tick in a Yorkshire Terrier? - in detail
Subcutaneous ticks embed beneath the skin, making them difficult to see. Early identification relies on a careful physical exam; the small dog’s thin coat often reveals a firm, slightly raised nodule. Palpate the area; a live tick feels like a hard lump that may move slightly when pressed.
Diagnostic steps
- Visual inspection of the skin surface for a tiny puncture or swelling.
- Palpation to confirm a foreign body beneath the epidermis.
- If uncertainty persists, a veterinary ultrasound can locate the tick’s position.
- Fine‑needle aspiration may be performed to obtain a sample for microscopic confirmation.
Removal procedure
- Sedate the dog if needed to keep it still and reduce stress.
- Prepare the site with antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine).
- Insert a fine‑pointed sterile needle or a small incision tool at the edge of the nodule, aiming toward the tick’s head.
- Gently extract the tick with fine forceps, taking care not to rupture its body.
- Apply a second antiseptic wipe to the wound and cover with a sterile dressing if bleeding occurs.
Post‑extraction care
- Administer a short course of broad‑spectrum antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) to prevent bacterial infection.
- Provide anti‑inflammatory medication (e.g., carprofen) to reduce swelling and pain.
- Monitor the site for signs of redness, discharge, or increased heat; contact the veterinarian if any appear.
- Schedule a follow‑up examination within 7–10 days to confirm healing.
Preventive measures
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide monthly (e.g., fipronil or selamectin).
- Keep the dog’s environment free of tall grass and leaf litter where ticks thrive.
- Conduct weekly full‑body checks after outdoor activity, focusing on the head, ears, and abdomen where subcutaneous attachment is common.
- Maintain regular vaccination against tick‑borne diseases (e.g., Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis) as recommended by the veterinarian.
By following these steps, owners can effectively manage a hidden tick infestation in a Yorkshire Terrier, minimize complications, and reduce the risk of future occurrences.