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Ticks are parasites that latch onto dogs, feeding on their blood and potentially spreading serious diseases, which can pose major health risks.
Preventing ticks is key to your dog’s health.
Ticks are relentless and stealthy invaders that can pose serious health risks to your dog. Despite their small size, these blood-sucking parasites carry diseases that can severely affect your pet’s health.
Think ticks take a break in winter? Think again. In milder climates, they stay active all year, hiding in warm, wooded areas or even lurking in the corners of your home. JS Rama Krishna, business head at Carniwel, told The Indian Express that common tick species in India include the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), the castor bean tick (Ixodes hexagonus), and various Dermacentor species. While colder weather might slow them down, ticks are resilient and can easily survive indoors, just waiting for the opportunity to latch onto your furry friend.
These parasites are more than just a nuisance — they are carriers of several debilitating diseases such as Lyme disease, tick paralysis, tick-borne fever, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. The symptoms of these conditions can range from fever, fatigue, and joint pain to more severe complications, including organ failure, if left untreated.
Krishna described ticks as small, dark, swollen bumps on a dog’s skinusually round or oval in shape. He noted that ticks typically attach themselves in areas such as the ears, neck, underarms, and between the toes, as these spots are warm and difficult for the dog to reach, making them ideal hiding places for the parasites.
To protect your dog, regular tick checks are vital, especially after walks in grassy, wooded, or bushy areas. Krishna advises a thorough examination of your pet, as ticks can attach within hours. Regular inspections help detect and remove ticks early, thereby reducing the risk of tick-borne illnesses.
If you find a tick, it’s important to remove it immediately. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick-removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward gently and steadily without twisting, as twisting can cause parts of the tick to remain embedded in the skin. After removal, clean the bite area with an antiseptic and monitor your dog for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or irritation.
Be alert for symptoms like lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or unusual behaviour, as these may indicate an infection. Seek veterinary advice promptly if any of these signs are present. Your vet may recommend treatments such as spot-on solutions, tick collars, oral medications, or sprays tailored to your dog’s health, breed, and activities.
For those considering natural alternatives, some pet owners use diluted essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, citronella, or apple cider vinegar sprays as tick repellents. But Krishna cautions that these methods are often less effective than chemical treatments. Always consult a veterinarian before trying any natural remedies to ensure they are safe for your pet.
Consistent tick prevention and management are crucial for keeping your furry companion safe and healthy. By staying proactive and seeking tailored advice from your veterinarian, you can protect your dog from the dangers posed by these persistent parasites.
