What is the subcutaneous tick in dogs called? - briefly
The subcutaneous form of a tick in a dog is referred to as a tick larva, often called a subcutaneous or infiltrating larva. It is the immature stage that burrows beneath the skin.
What is the subcutaneous tick in dogs called? - in detail
The tick that becomes lodged beneath the dermis of a dog is commonly termed a buried (or embedded) tick. Unlike an attached adult on the surface, the organism penetrates the skin, often leaving only a small puncture or a faint swelling visible.
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Typical species
• Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick) – most frequent cause of subcutaneous embedment.
• Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) – occasional contributor, especially in regions with high tick pressure.
• Ixodes scapularis (black‑legged tick) – can embed in dense fur or thick skin. -
Clinical signs
• Localized swelling or firm nodule at the bite site.
• Mild erythema, occasional ulceration if the tick dies in situ.
• Systemic signs (fever, lethargy) are uncommon but may appear if the tick transmits pathogens. -
Diagnosis
• Palpation of a firm, round mass beneath the skin.
• Ultrasonography or high‑frequency dermatoscopy confirms the presence of a foreign body.
• Fine‑needle aspiration can retrieve tick fragments for species identification. -
Removal procedure
- Sedate or restrain the dog to prevent sudden movement.
- Disinfect the area with chlorhexidine.
- Make a small incision directly over the nodule using a sterile scalpel.
- Extract the tick with fine forceps, ensuring the entire body, including mouthparts, is removed.
- Irrigate the wound, apply a topical antiseptic, and monitor for secondary infection.
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Post‑removal care
• Administer a broad‑spectrum antibiotic if bacterial contamination is suspected.
• Provide analgesia for discomfort.
• Schedule a follow‑up examination within 7–10 days to assess healing. -
Prevention
• Monthly topical or oral acaricides reduce the likelihood of tick attachment and subsequent embedment.
• Regular grooming and inspection of the coat, especially in high‑risk environments, help detect surface ticks before they migrate deeper.
• Environmental control (yard treatment, removal of leaf litter) lowers overall tick burden.
Understanding the terminology and management steps for a buried tick enables prompt intervention, minimizing tissue damage and the risk of disease transmission.