Tick bite on a dog, symptoms, what to do? - briefly
Redness, localized swelling, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain may follow a tick attachment. Remove the parasite with fine tweezers, clean the site, and seek veterinary care for possible antibiotics or antiparasitic medication.
Tick bite on a dog, symptoms, what to do? - in detail
A tick attached to a canine can transmit pathogens and cause local tissue irritation. Prompt identification and appropriate care reduce the risk of infection and systemic illness.
Typical clinical signs include:
- Localized redness or swelling at the attachment site
- Small, raised lesion that may become a pustule or ulcer
- Excessive licking or chewing of the affected area
- Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite if disease spreads
- Joint pain or limping, especially with Lyme‑disease involvement
- Neurological signs such as facial paralysis or ataxia in severe cases
Immediate actions:
- Remove the tick within minutes of discovery.
- Disinfect the puncture wound.
- Apply an antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine) to the area.
- Preserve the tick for identification if needed.
- Monitor the dog for at least two weeks.
- Record any changes in temperature, behavior, or mobility.
- Seek veterinary evaluation if fever, joint swelling, or neurological symptoms develop.
Preventive measures:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved ectoparasite product (topical, collar, or oral medication) according to the recommended schedule.
- Conduct regular body checks after outdoor activities, focusing on ears, neck, armpits, and between toes.
- Keep grass and leaf litter trimmed in the yard to reduce tick habitat.
If the dog shows signs of systemic infection, the veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests such as serology for Borrelia burgdorferi, PCR for Ehrlichia spp., or complete blood count. Treatment typically involves antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) and supportive care. Early intervention improves prognosis and limits long‑term complications.