What to give for a subcutaneous tick in a dog? - briefly
Administer a fast‑acting systemic acaricide—commonly ivermectin, afoxolaner, or fluralaner—under veterinary guidance, and consider a concurrent topical product if recommended. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential to confirm proper dosing and to address any secondary infection.
What to give for a subcutaneous tick in a dog? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick attached under the skin of a dog requires prompt, careful management to prevent infection, inflammation, and systemic disease. The following steps outline an evidence‑based approach.
Initial assessment
- Confirm the tick’s location by palpating the area; a raised nodule or firm swelling indicates a buried parasite.
- Examine the dog for signs of fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain, which may suggest tick‑borne illness.
Removal technique
- Apply a warm compress for 2–3 minutes to soften the surrounding tissue.
- Use sterile fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool; grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible without crushing the body.
- Pull steadily upward with constant pressure; avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
- If the mouthparts remain, make a small incision with a sterile scalpel to extract them, then disinfect the site with chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine.
Pharmacological support
- Antibiotic prophylaxis: Administer a broad‑spectrum antibiotic such as amoxicillin‑clavulanate (12 mg/kg, PO, BID) for 5–7 days if the wound is inflamed or if the dog shows systemic signs.
- Anti‑inflammatory medication: Provide a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (e.g., carprofen 4 mg/kg, PO, SID) to reduce swelling and pain.
- Tick‑borne disease prevention: Initiate a single dose of doxycycline (10 mg/kg, PO, BID) for 14 days if the tick species is known to transmit Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, or Borrelia, or if laboratory testing indicates exposure.
- Topical antiseptic: Apply a thin layer of mupirocin ointment to the extraction site twice daily for 3 days.
Diagnostic follow‑up
- Collect a blood sample for PCR or serology to detect common tick‑borne pathogens, especially if the dog develops fever or joint swelling within 2 weeks.
- Re‑examine the extraction site after 48 hours; ensure healing and absence of secondary infection.
Preventive measures
- Use a monthly topical or oral acaricide (e.g., fluralaner, afoxolaner) to reduce future infestations.
- Conduct regular full‑body checks after outdoor activities, focusing on ears, neck, and interdigital spaces.
- Maintain a clean environment; clear tall grass and brush from the yard where ticks thrive.
By combining meticulous removal, appropriate antimicrobial and anti‑inflammatory therapy, and vigilant monitoring, the risk of complications from a subcutaneous tick can be minimized, ensuring rapid recovery and long‑term health for the canine patient.