Ticks are the definition of creepy crawly — and their reputation for carrying diseases like Lyme makes them especially hated among dog parents. While no one wants to find any sort of parasite on their beloved pet, the reality is that at some point you probably will, especially if you and your four-legged friend love to adventure together.
Here’s what dog owners need to know about contact with ticks, tick borne illnesses and other risks, tick bite prevention, and tick removal!
The greatest risk of a tick bite is that your dog will contract a tick-borne disease.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is primarily transmitted to dogs through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. These parasites become infected with the bacterium when they feed on infected wildlife like deer or rodents.
When an infected tick bites a dog and remains attached long enough — typically 24 to 48 hours — it can transmit the Lyme disease-causing bacteria into the dog's bloodstream. Once infected, dogs can experience various symptoms, such as fever, lameness, joint swelling, lethargy, and inappetence.
In some cases, Lyme disease can lead to more severe health issues if left untreated.
Tick-borne illnesses in dogs are generally treatable, especially if diagnosed and treated early. The specific treatment will depend on the type of tick-borne disease and its severity. Some tick-borne diseases can be more challenging to treat — but with appropriate veterinary care, many dogs can recover successfully.
The most common tick treatments in dogs include:
Antibiotics: Bacterial tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are often treated with antibiotics. The type and duration of antibiotic treatment will vary depending on the specific disease and its severity.
Antiprotozoal medications: Diseases caused by protozoans, such as babesiosis and hepatozoonosis, may require antiprotozoal medications to target the parasites responsible for the illness.
Supportive care: In some cases, dogs with tick-borne diseases may require supportive care to get better, which can include fluid therapy, pain management, and other measures to alleviate symptoms and support the dog's overall health during the recovery period.
Blood transfusions: Dogs with severe cases of tick-borne diseases, especially babesiosis, may require blood transfusions to address anemia and other related complications.
Follow-up monitoring: After treatment, follow-up monitoring and check-ups with your veterinarian are essential to ensure that the dog has fully recovered and to address any potential complications.
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to tick-borne illnesses.
Monthly tick preventatives can be highly effective in preventing tick-borne illnesses in dogs. These preventatives come in various forms like spot-on treatments, oral tablets, and collars.
The active ingredients in tick preventatives target ticks at different life stages to reduce the risk of disease transmission. They work by either killing ticks before they can transmit diseases or by preventing ticks from attaching and feeding on the dog long enough to transmit pathogens.
When used as directed and administered regularly, these preventatives can significantly reduce the chances of your dog contracting tick-borne illnesses.
If you live in or plan to visit an area with a high tick population, it's important to discuss tick preventatives with your veterinarian. They can recommend the most suitable product based on your dog's specific needs and health status, your budget, and your personal preferences.
Ticks can be found throughout the United States, but their prevalence and the specific tick species vary depending on the region and climate:
Tick populations can fluctuate from year to year and can also be influenced by various factors, including weather, climate, and wildlife populations. As a general rule, it’s best to assume you and your dog have been exposed to ticks whenever you go outside, especially in warm months.
Know that no prevention method is 100% foolproof — so it's essential to remain vigilant and perform regular tick checks on your dog, especially after spending time in tick-prone areas.
Even the best prevention falls short sometimes. If you find a tick on your dog — and chances are you will at some point within their lifetime — here’s what to do.
We know this is easier said than done, especially when you see just how creepy an engorged tick is — but it’s the best thing you can do for your dog. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that you’ve got this, and get ready to help your companion feel better.
Tick-borne diseases can take time to manifest, so it's crucial to stay vigilant for any symptoms of illness in your dog after a tick bite.
If you suspect your dog has been exposed to ticks or is showing any signs of illness, including symptoms like fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or lameness, it's essential to seek veterinary attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications associated with tick-borne diseases!
Relocating to a new home can be a daunting task, especially when you have a four-legged friend to consider. So, we analyzed responses from Sniffspot users to get their best dog-friendly moving tips and advice.
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All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either his own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
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* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Much like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
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Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
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