Tiny ticks, BIG THREAT!

Ectoparasites are organisms that live on the outside of an animal. Ticks are fairly common ectoparasites of dogs (and cats). ​Some ticks can infest dogs that spend most of their time indoors, and even dogs that only spend brief periods of time outside can have ticks.

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DID YOU KNOW?

• While ticks themselves cause only mild irritation, they can carry diseases that pose a serious threat to animals and humans.
• Ticks can be prevented by regular use of tick control products.
• Just pulling off a tick can leave body parts attached to your dog. Ask your veterinarian about proper tick removal and tick control.
• Illnesses transmitted by ticks can case fever, anemia, paralysis, lameness, and other symptoms.
• People can not catch Lyme Disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever from infected dogs, but the same ticks that bite dogs can cause these illnesses and others if they bite humans.
• Adult ticks can live up to 3 years without blood meal.
• Ticks live on three different animals during their life.
• Most ticks spend most of their life OFF the host (animal) in the environment.
• Ticks can't jump and don't "fall from trees" as most people think, but transfer onto hosts when animals or humans walk through long grass, bushes and brush.

​​How do I prevent my dog from getting ticks?

​It is very difficult to prevent your dog’s exposure to ticks. Ticks can attach to your dog when he or she goes with you on walks, hikes, or during any outdoor activities. The best way to prevent ticks from attaching to your dog is by the regular use of tick control products. Your veterinarian can advise you about the best product for your dog and your situation.

​​How will ticks affect my dog?

Although rare, ticks can consume enough of your dog’s blood to cause a deficiency called anemia. Certain female ticks can also cause a rare paralysis in dogs as a result of a toxin they produce while feeding. More important, ticks are capable of causing many diseases in your pet. The disease with which most people are familiar is called Lyme Disease. Another is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

Check with your vet if you are unsure about removing ticks on your own. Your vet can see your pet and remove them for you.