Summer is fast approaching, and while we may be excited to soak up the sun and enjoy outdoor adventures, there's one tiny creature that could put a damper on your pet's fun: ticks. These blood-sucking pests are notorious for spreading diseases such as Lyme disease. With tick season in full swing, it's important to educate ourselves about how to protect against ticks and what to do if we find one on our pet’s body. So grab a cold drink and read on - we're diving into all things tick-related!
What are ticks and why are they a problem?
Ticks are small, parasitic insects that attach themselves to the skin of their host, typically an animal or human. They feed on the blood of their host, which can transmit diseases like Lyme disease.
Ticks are most active in the spring and summer months, but they can be active year-round in some areas. If you live in an area where ticks are common, it's important to check your pet for ticks regularly. Here are some signs to look for:
-Ticks are usually small and dark in colour. They may be hard to spot on your pet's fur, so it's important to feel for them.
-Ticks can cause irritation and itching at the site of the bite. Your pet may try to scratch or lick the affected area.
-If a tick is attached to your pet, you may see it "swelling" as it fills with blood.
If you find a tick on your pet, it's important to remove it carefully. Use a pair of tweezers or a special tick remover (as seen in the below photo) that is available in most pet stores and veterinary practices. With either product, grab the tick by the head or mouthparts, as close to the skin as possible. Pull straight up with steady pressure until the tick lets go. Avoid crushing the tick, as this can release infected fluids into your pet's body. After removing the tick, disinfect the bite site and wash your hands thoroughly.
How to treat pet’s for ticks?
For more serious infestations, you may need to use a topical treatment to prevent or kill the infestation. These products work by killing ticks on contact, so they're most effective when applied before your pet goes outside. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully, as improper application can lead to health problems for your pet.
If you think your pet has been exposed to a particularly large number of ticks, or if you're just not sure how many are lurking on their fur, it's always best to err on the side of caution and take them to see a veterinarian. Your vet can prescribe a stronger treatment if necessary and help you get your pet back to good health!
Tick season is a time to be extra vigilant and take steps to protect ourselves and our pets from tick-borne illnesses. With the right prevention methods as described above, we can all help reduce our risks of getting bitten by these annoying pests.
Dr. Alan
