What should be done if a dog had ticks? - briefly
Remove the ticks promptly using fine‑tipped tweezers, pulling straight out and disinfecting the bite sites, then contact a veterinarian for treatment and preventive recommendations.
What should be done if a dog had ticks? - in detail
If a canine is found with ticks, begin by isolating the animal to prevent further attachment. Conduct a thorough examination, running fingers along the coat from head to tail, paying special attention to the ears, neck, armpits, and between the toes.
Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady, even pressure, and avoid twisting or squeezing the body. After removal, place the specimen in a sealed container for identification if needed, then disinfect the bite site with a mild antiseptic such as chlorhexidine solution.
Monitor the area for signs of infection—redness, swelling, or discharge—and for systemic symptoms like fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Administer a short course of a broad‑spectrum antibiotic if a veterinarian confirms bacterial involvement. Consider a single dose of an oral antiparasitic (e.g., ivermectin or afoxolaner) to eliminate any remaining ectoparasites.
Implement a preventive regimen: apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or collar product, use an oral chewable that provides month‑long protection, and maintain a clean environment by regularly mowing grass, removing leaf litter, and treating the yard with an appropriate acaricide. Regular grooming sessions help detect new infestations early.
Seek professional veterinary care if the tick is engorged, if multiple ticks are present, if the dog shows neurological signs, or if the owner cannot safely remove the parasites. Prompt intervention reduces the risk of tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.