Subcutaneous tick in dogs: what is it? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick is a tick that lodges beneath a dog’s skin, between the dermis and deeper tissues, frequently without external signs. It may produce localized swelling, ulceration, or systemic infection if left untreated.
Subcutaneous tick in dogs: what is it? - in detail
Subcutaneous tick infestation in dogs occurs when a tick embeds its mouthparts beneath the skin rather than remaining attached to the surface. The parasite penetrates the dermis, creates a tunnel, and feeds on blood while remaining hidden from visual inspection.
The condition typically follows exposure to dense vegetation in warm climates, where ticks of the genera Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus are most common. After attachment, the tick secretes anticoagulant saliva, induces local inflammation, and may remain for several days to weeks. Because the body of the tick is not visible, owners often notice only swelling or a firm nodule.
Clinical manifestations include:
- Localized swelling or a palpable, firm mass under the skin
- Mild to moderate pain on palpation
- Redness or heat over the affected area
- Possible secondary bacterial infection, presenting as pus or ulceration
- Systemic signs such as lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite in severe cases
Diagnosis relies on a combination of physical examination and imaging. Palpation may reveal a firm, movable lump; ultrasonography can identify the tick’s silhouette within the subdermal tissue. Fine‑needle aspiration may retrieve tick fragments or reveal inflammatory cells, confirming the diagnosis.
Effective treatment involves surgical removal. The preferred technique is a small incision directly over the nodule, careful extraction of the entire tick, and thorough cleansing of the wound. Incomplete removal can lead to persistent inflammation or secondary infection. Post‑operative care includes:
- Administration of broad‑spectrum antibiotics for 5–7 days if bacterial contamination is suspected
- Analgesics to manage pain
- Monitoring for wound dehiscence or recurrence
Prevention strategies focus on reducing tick exposure and early detection:
- Regular application of approved acaricidal spot‑on treatments or collars
- Routine grooming and inspection of the coat, especially after walks in tick‑infested areas
- Environmental control, such as mowing lawns, removing leaf litter, and treating the yard with appropriate tick‑control products
Understanding the hidden nature of subdermal tick infestations enables timely intervention, minimizes tissue damage, and reduces the risk of pathogen transmission associated with tick bites.