What should be done if a dog is bitten by a tick, with treatment at home? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the bite site with a pet‑safe antiseptic. Observe the dog for fever, lethargy, or swelling over the next two weeks and contact a veterinarian if any abnormal symptoms appear.
What should be done if a dog is bitten by a tick, with treatment at home? - in detail
When a tick attaches to a dog, the first priority is to eliminate the parasite without leaving mouthparts embedded in the skin. Use fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool; grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing the body, which can cause the mouthparts to break off.
After removal, cleanse the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or diluted povidone‑iodine. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of veterinary‑approved topical antiseptic gel if available. Monitor the wound for signs of inflammation, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
Supportive care includes:
- Observation: Check the attachment spot twice daily for redness, heat, or a developing ulcer.
- Temperature check: Record the dog’s temperature; a rise above 39.5 °C (103 °F) may indicate infection.
- Hydration: Ensure free access to fresh water; offer a small amount of electrolyte solution if the animal appears lethargic.
- Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet; consider a high‑protein, easily digestible meal if appetite declines.
- Medication: Administer a single dose of an over‑the‑counter anti‑inflammatory such as carprofen (dose according to weight) if mild swelling occurs, following the product label. Use a broad‑spectrum tick preventive to reduce future infestations.
Record the date of removal and the tick’s size; large, engorged ticks increase the risk of disease transmission. If any of the following develop, contact a veterinarian promptly:
- Persistent fever or lethargy.
- Joint pain, limping, or swelling.
- Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours.
- Unusual bruising or bleeding.
- Neurological signs such as tremors or disorientation.
Regularly inspect the dog’s coat, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas. Maintain a monthly preventive regimen—topical, oral, or collar‑based—to minimize tick exposure and reduce the likelihood of future bites.