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What to do if a dog is bitten by a tick: tips

Ihor Romanko

What to do if a dog is bitten by a tick: tips
What to do if a dog is bitten by a tick: tips

Ticks are small parasitic insects that can bite your dog and transmit a variety of diseases. If your dog has been in a natural environment, especially in a forest, meadow or mountainous area, he may be at risk of a tick bite.

Read also: Why do dogs tilt their heads to the side and look inquisitively

The sooner you recognize this situation and act appropriately, the better the chances of keeping your dog healthy. Here are some important steps you can take if your dog is bitten by a tick.

  • Remove the tick as soon as possible. When removing a tick, it is important to use special tick tweezers or a tick key, which allows you to slightly rotate the tick, loosen its grip, and pull it out completely. Do not use fingers or sharp objects such as needles or carpets, as this can cause parts of the tick to remain in the skin, which can lead to infection;
  • Remove the tick the right way. Follow these steps to remove the tick:
    • Use special tick tweezers or a tick wrench to grasp the tick as close to your dog's skin as possible.
    • Gently twist the tick left and right, loosening its grip, and pull it out in a smooth motion, trying not to stretch the tick.
    • Do not squeeze the body of the tick, twist it or stretch the nails, as this can break the body of the tick, which can cause the contents of the tick to be released into your dog's bloodstream.
  • Try to save the tick for further research. If possible, after removing the tick, store it in a container with an impermeable bottom, such as a plastic bubble or glass, for later study. The tick can be used to determine its species and the potential presence of infectious agents;
  • Watch for possible symptoms of the disease. After a tick bite, monitor your dog for possible signs of illness, such as rashes, inflammation, purulent sores, fatigue, loss of appetite, changes in behavior, or changes in physiology. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately;
  • Consult a veterinarian for consultation and treatment. If your dog has been bitten by a tick, it is important to contact your veterinarian for a consultation and risk assessment. The veterinarian will be able to carry out the appropriate tests and establish the correct diagnosis. In some cases, treatment such as antibiotics or other medical procedures may be necessary;
  • Apply preventive measures. To prevent future tick bites, check your dog regularly for ticks, especially after outdoor walks. Use tick repellents.

Previously, we wrote about why cats like to sleep at their owner's feet, as well as about 3 breeds of dogs that bring good luck to their owners.

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