As you probably know, ticks have been spreading rapidly in recent years. Ticks carry infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, many of which can affect both people and pets. Keeping your pup on parasite control is very important, but that doesn’t provide 100% coverage. Daily checks are still necessary, especially as it nears the time for Fido’s next dose. But what if you find a tick? A Hendersonville, NC vet offers some tick-removal tips for pet owners below.
Checks
Check your canine pal daily, especially after you and Fido have been in fields or wooded areas. Look between those furry toes, beneath his collar, and in his ‘armpits’. Be sure to incorporate lots of petting and belly rubs!
Tools
Tweezers have long been the go-to for tick removal. (Note: fine-point ones are better for this particular task.) However, you can also get tick removal hooks, which are quite easy to use. Don’t use your fingers: if you squish/pop the tick, you could release bacteria onto you and/or Fido.
Eviction
Removing the tick is quite easy, if not exactly pleasant. Get a good hold on the monster, and then pull in a slow, steady movement. It’s important not to go too fast! Part of the tick could break off and become embedded.
The Aftermath
Once you’ve gotten the little beast out of your pet, you’ll want to take its picture. We know, you’d probably rather never see it again. However, this could be helpful, as if Fido does develop symptoms, that photo can help ID the tick, which could help pinpoint the disease. Once you’ve done that, dispose of it carefully, wash your hands, and put some rubbing alcohol or antiseptic on the spot where it was. You’ll also need to clean and disinfect the tweezers or tool. Don’t forget to give your furry patient some belly rubs, and maybe a yummy treat!
Did You Know?
There are over 200 types of ticks living in the United States today. Here in North Carolina, we have the Brown Dog Tick, the American Dog Tick, the Deer Tick, and the Lone Star Tick. Unfortunately, tick-borne diseases have been found in all of the 50 states. Stay vigilant! That means checking not only Fido regularly, but also yourself.
Is your pup due for parasite prevention? Contact us, your Hendersonville, NC animal clinic!
