What happens if a tick remains on a dog? - briefly
A tick that stays attached may transmit bacteria, viruses, or parasites, cause localized inflammation, and, if numerous, induce anemia. Immediate removal minimizes infection risk and tissue damage.
What happens if a tick remains on a dog? - in detail
A tick that stays attached to a dog continues to feed on blood, enlarging as it engorges. The mouthparts embed deeply into the skin, creating a small wound that may bleed or become inflamed. Prolonged attachment increases the risk that pathogens carried by the parasite are transmitted into the bloodstream. Commonly transferred agents include Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (anaplasmosis), Ehrlichia canis (ehrlichiosis), and Rickettsia spp. (spotted fever). Each infection can produce fever, joint pain, lethargy, loss of appetite, and, in severe cases, organ dysfunction.
Beyond infectious disease, the feeding process can cause localized skin irritation. The bite site often turns red, swells, and may develop a crusted scab. Secondary bacterial infection can arise if the area is scratched or not kept clean, leading to pus formation and tissue necrosis. Heavy infestations or long‑term feeding by a single tick may result in anemia, especially in small or young dogs, because the parasite can consume up to several milliliters of blood per day.
Some tick species produce neurotoxins that induce tick paralysis. The toxin is secreted in the tick’s saliva and enters the host’s circulation. Symptoms begin with weakness in the hind limbs, progress to generalized paresis, and can culminate in respiratory failure if the animal cannot breathe properly. Prompt removal typically halts toxin production and allows recovery, but delayed extraction raises mortality risk.
Visible signs that a tick has remained attached include:
- A raised, rounded bump on the skin, often near the head, ears, or between the toes.
- Persistent scratching or licking of the area.
- Redness or a small ulcer surrounding the mouthparts.
- Unexplained lethargy, fever, or loss of coordination.
Effective management requires immediate removal with fine‑point tweezers or a tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and avoid twisting. After extraction, clean the site with antiseptic and monitor for swelling or infection over the next 24–48 hours. If any systemic signs appear—such as fever, joint swelling, or weakness—consult a veterinarian promptly for diagnostic testing and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, anti‑inflammatory medication, or supportive care for paralysis. Regular use of approved tick preventatives reduces the likelihood of prolonged attachment and the associated health complications.