Ticks can be more than just a nuisance. They not only bite but also spread a lot of harmful diseases in humans and pets. Lyme Disease, Rocky Spotted Mountain Fever, and Babesiosis are some of the common tick-borne diseases in Massachusetts. There are a lot of ways to prevent these diseases. Knowing what to do if you find a tick on your dog can help prevent these diseases and keep your furry friend healthy. First, look at a step-by-step guide to safely remove a tick from your dog and take the necessary precautions.
Step 1: Don’t Panic
If you find a tick on your dog, the primary step is not to panic. Your first instinct should be to gather these things;
Tweezers
Rubbing alcohol
Gloves
A small container/plastic bag
Antiseptic solution
Step 2: Remove the Tick
Put on gloves: Always remember to wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the tick, as it can transmit diseases to humans.
Use tweezers: Gently grab the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible to avoid crushing the tick, which can release more pathogens into your dog’s blood.
Pull the Tick Out: To avoid infection, pull the tick out slowly and steadily without twisting it. Make sure to pull out the entire tick with its head. Leaving behind the head can cause infection.
Disinfect the Area: To prevent infection, clean the affected area with rubbing alcohol.
Step 3: Dispose of the Tick
Kill the Tick: Putting the tick in a small container or plastic bag with rubbing alcohol will kill the tick.
Save the Tick: Keep the tick in a sealed container with a note of the date and location of the bite in case your dog shows signs of any illness.
Step 4: Check Your Dog For Any Symptoms
Watch for Symptoms: After removing the tick, monitor your dog for any signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or a severe rash. Tick-borne diseases can take days to weeks to show symptoms.
Consult Your Veterinarian: If your dog shows any signs or if you’re not sure about the removal process, contact your vet for advice. They might suggest bringing your dog in for a check-up.
Step 5: Prevent Future Tick Bites
Regular Tick Checks: Make sure to check your dog for ticks after every outing. Pay special attention to the armpits, behind the knees, behind the ears, and under any fold.
Use Preventatives: Consult your vet about tick-preventative measures such as collars, topical treatments, or oral medications that can help keep ticks off your dog.
Maintain Your Yard: Keep your yard well-maintained by mowing the lawn regularly, trimming shrubs, and removing leaf litter. This reduces tick habitat around your home.
If you find a significant amount of ticks in your house then it is important to contact a tick control professional. RidAway is one such professional tick removal service. It is EPA-approved, state-licensed, and industry-certified, uses non-toxic pesticides, and guarantees tick removal.
RidAway is ready to come to your rescue for a quick solution to an urgent intrusion.
