Did you know that ticks are a common problem for dogs and their owners across all 50 states? These parasitic pests can cause a variety of problems for your dog due to their ability to transmit a wide range of diseases.
The good news? There are a number of things you can do to protect your dog from the dangers of ticks and if you do find yourself dealing with these parasites, there are steps you can take to help ensure your dog is safe.
In this guide, we will discuss tick prevention for dogs. We will cover a variety of topics, including how to choose the right tick-prevention product, how to use them effectively, and what to do if you find a tick on your dog.
What Are Ticks?
Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that live in woods and grassy areas. They are parasitic, which means they feed on the blood of other animals. Ticks can spread infections like Lyme disease to humans and animals, so it’s important to know how to avoid them.
It’s a common myth that ticks are only a threat during the spring and summer and only present in certain states. Ticks are active year-round and impact pets in all 50 states. They wait on grasses and shrubs for an animal to brush against them so they can hitch a ride. Once on an animal, they crawl to a warm, moist place to feed.
Tick-Borne Diseases
Ticks can spread diseases to pets and humans through their bite. These tick-borne diseases are a growing concern across the USA with over 400,000 dogs diagnosed with the tick-borne Lyme disease in 2022 alone* - and those are just the ones that were tested!
Common tick-borne diseases in dogs include:
Lyme disease
Ehrlichiosis
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Anaplasmosis (common in the Northeastern states)
Ehrlichiosis (impacts immune system and blood clotting)
Hepatozoonosis
Babesiosis (a malaria-like disease; chronic and often life-threatening)
Other unclassified tick fevers
All these diseases can be transmitted through tick bites and cause a variety of symptoms depending on the disease in question. If left untreated, some of these tick-borne diseases can be life-threatening to dogs (and humans too!). If you find a tick on your dog, it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases is key to preventing serious, long-term health complications.
Preventing Ticks on Dogs
No matter where you live or your dog’s lifestyle, it is important to take proactive steps to keep them safe from the dangers of ticks all year long.
There are thankfully many options available for protecting dogs; the best and safest tick prevention medication will depend on your dog’s unique needs. It can be very helpful to speak with your veterinarian about which product is most suitable for your pup.
If you live in an area known to have a high tick population, or walk in grassy or wooded areas, make sure you are checking your dog’s fur after each outdoor excursion. Run your fingers down to their skin and wash/brush out any dirt that could be concealing a tick. Check your own clothes too to ensure you’re not carrying the parasites into your home after a walk. Using a lint brush to try to catch them before they bite and fall off in your home is another good trick for both your dogs and the humans in your house.
Recommended Flea Treatment for Dogs
If you find a tick on your dog, it's important to act quickly and safely. You can either try to remove the tick yourself or take your dog to your nearest pet urgent care or an emergency pet hospital to seek the assistance of a veterinary professional. If you choose to remove the tick from your dog, follow the steps below:
Use tweezers (or a tick remover instrument recommended by your veterinarian) to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible removing the whole head and body.
Pull the tick straight out with slow and steady pressure. (If the head of the tick is left in the skin, it can cause an infection and still transmit disease, so make sure the whole body is removed.)
Once the tick is removed, place it in a sealed container so that it can be tested for diseases that it may have been carrying.
Clean the area of your dog’s skin with soap and water then apply a pet-safe antiseptic cream, spray, or gel.
Contact your veterinarian for advice on the next steps. They will likely ask you to bring the tick to their hospital for testing.
If testing indicates that your dog has been exposed to a tick-borne disease, your vet will formulate a recommended treatment plan. Depending on the disease, this treatment may include antiviral drugs or antibiotics.
Finally, it's important to keep an eye on your dog for any signs of illness over the following weeks. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or health, take them to your local urgent care or emergency pet hospital right away.
Additional Tips for Tick Prevention
Regular Grooming: Regular grooming sessions can help you spot ticks early. Brushing your dog’s coat not only keeps it healthy but also allows you to check for any parasites.
Yard Maintenance: Keep your yard well-maintained by mowing the lawn regularly and removing leaf litter and tall grasses where ticks thrive.
Tick-Repellent Products: Consider using tick-repellent sprays, collars, or spot-on treatments. These products can provide an extra layer of protection against ticks.
Avoid Tick-Infested Areas: When possible, avoid walking your dog in areas known to have high tick populations, such as dense woods or tall grassy fields.
Tick Checks: Make tick checks a routine part of your dog’s care, especially after outdoor activities. Pay special attention to areas like the ears, neck, and between the toes.
Let’s Wrap Up
Ticks are a year-round threat to dogs, but with the right prevention strategies, you can keep your furry friend safe. Regular grooming, yard maintenance, and the use of tick-prevention products are key steps in protecting your dog from tick-borne diseases. If you find a tick on your dog, act quickly to remove it and consult your veterinarian for further advice. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can ensure your dog enjoys a happier, healthier, and tick-free life.
*Statistical source: petsandparasites.org
