What should be done at home when a dog has many ticks? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp each tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure until the parasite releases. Disinfect the bite sites, bathe the dog with a tick‑removing shampoo, and watch for any signs of infection.
What should be done at home when a dog has many ticks? - in detail
A heavy infestation of ectoparasites on a canine requires prompt, systematic action. Immediate removal prevents disease transmission, reduces irritation, and limits the risk of secondary infections.
The removal process should follow these steps:
- Gather appropriate tools: fine‑toothed comb, tweezers with a narrow tip, disposable gloves, and a disinfectant such as 70 % isopropyl alcohol.
- Secure the animal in a calm position; a second person may help hold the dog gently but firmly to prevent sudden movements.
- Inspect the coat thoroughly, starting from the head and moving toward the tail, separating hair sections to expose hidden parasites.
- Grasp each parasite as close to the skin as possible with tweezers, apply steady upward pressure, and withdraw without twisting. Place each removed specimen in a sealed container for later identification, if needed.
- After removal, wipe the bite sites with alcohol to disinfect and reduce the chance of bacterial entry.
- Dispose of gloves and tools safely; clean reusable instruments with hot, soapy water and a disinfectant solution.
Following removal, care for the skin and coat:
- Bathe the dog with a mild, tick‑specific shampoo; allow the lather to remain for the recommended duration before rinsing.
- Dry the coat completely, then examine the skin for redness, lesions, or residual parasites.
- Monitor the animal for 24–48 hours, watching for signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite; contact a veterinarian if any abnormality appears.
Long‑term prevention involves environmental and topical strategies:
- Conduct weekly checks of the entire coat, focusing on ears, neck, and between the toes.
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved acaricide product according to the label schedule; options include spot‑on treatments, oral medications, or collars.
- Treat the living area: wash bedding at high temperature, vacuum carpets, and, if necessary, use a tick‑targeted environmental spray in shaded, grassy zones where the dog frequents.
- Maintain a regular grooming routine to keep the coat tidy and facilitate early detection of new infestations.
By adhering to these procedures, the risk of tick‑borne diseases diminishes, and the dog’s comfort and health are preserved.