Ticks in dogs – What can they cause to your dog and how to prevent it
Ticks are parasites that can be found everywhere. They are usually found in forests, woods, and grassy areas. Ticks in dogs are very common but the amount and how often ticks infect a dog will depend on your location and the time of the year. When ticks cling to your dog, they do so by inserting their mouth parts into his skin. The female feeds on your dog´s blood (which he needs to nurture his eggs) and transmits several diseases in the process.
How can my dog get ticks?
Your dog can get ticks through contact with other dogs. Probably a wild animal went through your yard, or you live in an area which used to be for cattle. These left female ticks on the yard, which will lay and spray eggs into your environment. These eggs hatched and the ticks became adults and jumped into your dog.
Ticks need a warm-blooded organism to feed. So they patiently wait on the grass for your dog to pass by. When he does, they grasp to the dog´s hair and begin to climb up to the skin.
What is the effect of ticks in dogs?
When ticks attach to your dog´s skin, they release saliva, which can cause allergies in your dog´s skin, causing him to itch a lot. Very rarely, ticks consuming your dog´s blood can cause him to develop anemia.
There are several other diseases that ticks in dogs can cause, the most well-known one probably being Lyme disease. Lyme disease can cause joint swelling and arthritis. Other common diseases caused by ticks are:
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever. This can cause fever, depression, pain in the joints, and other signs.
- Ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis). Besides the ones described already, this one can cause nose bleeds and bruise on belly and gums.
- Anaplasmosis.
What can I do to prevent ticks from infecting my dog?
Preventing ticks from coming in contact with your dog. They can get them in a walk outside or even in your backyard. The best way to prevent an infestation is through regular use of tick-preventing products and veterinarian check.
There are many ways in which you can keep your dog tick-free. In Dogalize we know how important this is and we want to help you maintain a healthy environment for your dog. Follow us to get the latest tips and trick on tick prevention.