Deer Ticks On Dogs

By Ticks on Dogs

Deer Ticks On Dogs

This is an article about deer ticks on dogs. And the importance of getting rid of deer ticks on dogs.

Dogs, Deer Ticks and Lyme Disease!
By Kathleen Hobbs

Did you know that there are over 800 species of ticks worldwide? Wow! The tick that poses the biggest threat to dogs (and humans) is the deer tick, also known as the black-legged tick. Why is this tick so dangerous? Well, for one thing, it carries Lyme disease and it is also suspected of transmitting the virus that causes encephalitis in dogs.

Most people think that ticks are insects when in fact; they are part of the arachnid family. Just as fleas need blood to survive, so do ticks. They are parasites that simply love to feast on blood! In the early spring, the mama tick will lay her eggs on the ground. When late spring comes around, the eggs hatch and the larvae emerge. Once they have emerged they search for a host in order to nourish themselves. Most larvae attach themselves to mice or other small rodents. Once they have had their fill of blood, they drop off their host in order to molt. As they molt, the larvae shed their hard exoskeleton and begin to morph into their nymph phase. Nymphs stay dormant during the winter season, however, when they awaken in the spring, they are hungrier than ever! The nymphs most common host is the white-tailed deer, however, they would be just as happy feasting on your dog or heaven forbid, YOU!

Fleas jump, ticks crawl! They hide in tall grasses waiting for you to pass by. Ticks respond to body heat, carbon dioxide and vibrations (such as your footsteps!). They also like warm, hairy places; therefore, your dog (and your head) are the perfect hosts! It is interesting to note that in order for a tick to transmit a disease, it must be attached (or dug in) to their host for at least twenty-four hours.

Dogs and Lyme Disease

If your dog has been bitten by a tick that is carrying Lyme disease you will begin to notice symptoms within three to four weeks. Symptoms of Lyme disease include lameness, fever, lethargy, swollen joints, depression and loss of appetite. If your dog is not treated with antibiotics right away the situation can become incredibly worse as they can develop lesions, permanent joint damage, kidney problems (including complete failure), and even heart problems. Lyme disease can often be difficult to diagnose, therefore, if you live in a heavily wooded area, it would be wise to have your dog vaccinated.

If you find a tick on your dog, do not pull it off with your bare hands! Use a tissue, latex gloves, tweezers or a tick remover. You can purchase tick removers at your local pet supply store or online. Another great way to remove ticks from your pet is by gently scraping it off with a credit card. Once the tick is removed, drop it into a small cup of alcohol or tick spray. By doing so, you will ensure that it is dead. BE SURE TO REMOVE THE ENTIRE TICK as it is easy to leave part of the tick behind! Once you have gotten rid of the tick, thoroughly check your dog’s skin. If the area that was bitten is red and or swollen, simply clean the area with a wash cloth (and hydrogen peroxide) and then apply an antibacterial ointment such as Neosporin.

After you have removed a tick from your dog, it is very important that you observe your pet for several weeks. If they exhibit and sign of Lyme disease (mentioned above), be sure to take him or her to the veterinarian as soon as possible! Fortunately for pet owners, there is an arsenal of products available to protect our furry friends from both fleas and ticks. However, these products must be used wisely! Be sure to read the label of any tick product that you purchase before using it on your dog. Also, it is very important that you thoroughly check your dog for ticks after each and every walk! Better to be safe than sorry!

Kathleen writes for a blog devoted to dog incontinence products, tips and advice. Learn how to cope with your dog’s incontinence issues and the best pet odor eliminator to turn to when your dog has an accident.

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