How to treat ticks on dogs? - briefly
Remove ticks promptly using fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick remover, clean the bite site with antiseptic, and administer a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral acaricide to prevent further infestation. Follow up with a vet to confirm appropriate dosage and check for any infection.
How to treat ticks on dogs? - in detail
Effective tick management in dogs requires prompt removal, appropriate medication, and preventive measures.
First, inspect the animal’s coat thoroughly, focusing on ears, neck, armpits, and between toes. Use a fine‑toothed comb or fingertips to locate engorged arthropods.
When a tick is found, follow these steps:
- Grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible with tweezers or a tick‑removal tool.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or crushing the body.
- Disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic solution.
- Dispose of the tick by submerging it in 70 % isopropyl alcohol or sealing it in a container for later identification.
After removal, monitor the wound for signs of infection—redness, swelling, or discharge—and apply a topical antibiotic if recommended by a veterinarian.
Pharmacological options include:
- Topical acaricides (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid) applied to the skin at the recommended interval.
- Oral chewable products containing afoxolaner, fluralaner, or sarolaner, which provide systemic protection for several weeks.
- Collars impregnated with permethrin or deltamethrin, offering continuous release of active ingredients.
Select a product based on the dog’s weight, health status, and exposure risk. Follow label instructions precisely; overdosing can cause toxicity.
Prevention strategies:
- Maintain a short, well‑groomed coat to reduce hiding places.
- Keep the yard trimmed, remove leaf litter, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel around the perimeter.
- Limit walks in tall grass or wooded areas during peak tick activity (spring and early summer).
- Conduct weekly inspections after outdoor excursions.
If the animal displays signs of tick‑borne disease—fever, lethargy, lameness, loss of appetite, or unexplained bruising—seek veterinary care immediately. Laboratory testing may be required to diagnose conditions such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis.
Regular veterinary check‑ups ensure that preventive regimens remain effective and allow early detection of emerging health issues related to tick exposure.