What should you do if a Spitz dog has a tick? - briefly
When a Spitz dog is found with a tick, grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible with fine tweezers and pull upward with steady pressure. Disinfect the bite site, wash your hands, and watch the dog for redness or fever over the next few days.
What should you do if a Spitz dog has a tick? - in detail
If a tick attaches to a Spitz‑type dog, remove it promptly. First, locate the parasite with a fine‑pointed tweezer or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady, even pressure, and avoid twisting. After extraction, clean the bite area with antiseptic solution and wash your hands thoroughly.
Following removal, inspect the dog for additional ticks. Conduct a full body check, paying special attention to the head, ears, neck, armpits, and between the toes. If any other ticks are found, repeat the removal process.
After the procedure, monitor the site for signs of infection or inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If these symptoms develop, contact a veterinarian without delay. Also watch for systemic signs—loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, or lameness—since they may indicate disease transmission.
Consult a veterinarian within 24 hours to discuss the risk of tick‑borne illnesses common to the region, such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis. The vet may recommend a blood test, prophylactic antibiotics, or a booster of preventive medication.
Implement a long‑term prevention plan. Use a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral tick control product according to the label schedule. Keep the dog’s living area free of tall grass and leaf litter, and regularly clean bedding and grooming tools. Regular grooming sessions provide additional opportunities to spot and remove ticks before they embed.
Record the date of removal, the location on the body, and any observed symptoms. Maintaining this log assists the veterinarian in evaluating potential disease exposure and adjusting preventive measures accordingly.