What will happen if a tick is not removed from a dog? - briefly
If a tick stays attached, it may transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or babesiosis, producing fever, lethargy, joint pain, or anemia. Prolonged attachment also risks local skin irritation, infection, or allergic reactions.
What will happen if a tick is not removed from a dog? - in detail
Leaving a tick attached to a dog can lead to several health complications. The parasite feeds on blood, enlarging the attachment site and causing local irritation. Prolonged feeding may result in:
- Skin inflammation, redness, and swelling at the bite area.
- Secondary bacterial infection if the wound is scratched or contaminated.
- Development of a painful, hard nodule called a tick granuloma.
Beyond the local effects, the tick may transmit pathogens. Commonly associated diseases include:
- Lyme disease – caused by Borrelia burgdorferi; symptoms may progress from fever and joint pain to kidney dysfunction if untreated.
- Anaplasmosis – Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection; manifests as lethargy, loss of appetite, and low platelet count.
- Ehrlichiosis – Ehrlichia canis infection; leads to fever, bleeding disorders, and immune suppression.
- Babesiosis – Babesia spp.; results in anemia, weakness, and organ damage.
Transmission risk increases with the duration of attachment; most pathogens require at least 24‑48 hours of feeding to be transmitted. If the tick remains for several days, the likelihood of infection rises sharply.
Systemic consequences may include:
- Fever, depression, and reduced activity.
- Hematologic abnormalities such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, or leukopenia.
- Organ involvement, particularly kidneys, liver, and heart, leading to chronic disease if not addressed promptly.
Early removal reduces the chance of pathogen transfer and limits tissue damage. If a tick is discovered after an extended period, a veterinary examination is essential. Blood tests can identify infections, and appropriate antibiotic or antiparasitic therapy can be initiated to prevent severe outcomes.