Your Dog and Ticks

Summer is coming … and so are the ticks. Even though ticks are a year-round problem here in Texas, they tend to come out in droves in summertime. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX veterinary hospital, a local vet discusses ticks.

Dangers of Ticks

Ticks are far more than a disgusting nuisance. These nasty critters can transmit other parasites, and can also carry some very dangerous diseases, such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease. Fido could get very sick if he is bitten by an infected tick!

Protecting Fido

First and foremost, keep up with your pup’s parasite control products. Don’t double up on them, however, as this could be dangerous. Ask your vet for product recommendations. Daily tick checks are also recommended, especially after Fido has spent time outdoors. Check your furry pal from nose to tail. Look between your pup’s toes, around his ears, under his armpits, and beneath his collar.

Intruder Alert!

If you do find a tick, don’t panic. Just put on a pair of gloves, and go get clean tweezers, rubbing alcohol, a small container, and antiseptic. First, pour the alcohol into the container. Next, getting as close to your dog’s skin as possible, use tweezers to remove the tick. You can also use a tick puller. When you have a hold of the tiny monster, pull up and out in a steady motion. Put the tick in the alcohol. Then, put antiseptic on Fido’s skin, where the tick was. You’ll need to double check to make sure you got the entire insect. Try to get clear pictures of the tick. Otherwise, you may need to save it: if your canine buddy does develop symptoms, it will help if you can identify the tick.

Property

There are some things you can do to make your property less appealing to ticks. Mow your lawn regularly, and keep your property clear of debris. Ticks love to lurk in tall grasses and dead brush! Also, trim back shrubs or plants, so they don’t touch the walls of your house. Putting a gravel or stone path around your property can also help. Ticks don’t like being exposed to direct sunlight, and will often turn back from such barriers. Do you have any questions about your dog’s health or care? Call Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX veterinary hospital, today!