Ways To Stop Dogs Getting Ticks – Tick Prevention For Dogs

If you have a dog and you like to walk them in parks or woods, or maybe they go on walks at daycare, they are at risk of getting ticks. Ticks can be annoying, they can also be painful for a dog, so it’s important to make sure you know how to remove them properly and even more important, it’s great to know how to prevent your dog from getting ticks.

Take a look below for more information about ticks and what products you can use to remove ticks and hopefully prevent your dog from getting ticks in the future.

Are Tick Bites Itchy After Removal?

Yes, tick bites can be itchy after removal. The itchiness is usually due to the body’s natural reaction to the tick’s saliva, which can contain proteins that trigger a mild allergic response. Even after the tick is removed, the area may remain red, swollen, and itchy for several days. It’s important not to scratch the bite, as this can lead to further irritation or infection. Applying antiseptic, hydrocortisone cream, or a cold compress can help soothe the itching.

If you are worried about your dog itching and making it worse, you can always use a full-body suit for them so they can’t scratch it. If this is something you are considering we would suggest checking on the area on a regular basis and keeping it clean.

Are Ticks on Dogs Common?

Ticks on dogs are quite common, especially during warmer months or in regions with tall grass, wooded areas, or dense vegetation. Dogs that spend time outdoors are particularly at risk. These parasites are opportunistic and will latch onto any warm-blooded host, including pets, to feed on their blood. Regular checks are essential, particularly after walks or outdoor playtime.

If you walk your dog often, take them to daycare where they go for walks and mix with other dogs or have someone else walk your dog, then it is important to check your dog over regularly for ticks.

Are Ticks on Dogs Dangerous?

Yes, ticks on dogs can be dangerous. While the tick bite itself may seem minor, ticks can transmit a range of serious diseases through their saliva. Some of these diseases can lead to long-term health problems or even be life-threatening if left untreated. Additionally, a large number of ticks feeding on a dog can cause anaemia due to blood loss.

It is important not to leave a tick on a dog, they will not just fall off. If you’re unsure on what to do or how to handle the situation, we suggest going to the vet and having them remove the tick.

Can Ticks on Dogs Make Them Sick?

Ticks can absolutely make dogs sick. They are known carriers of several diseases, including:

• Lyme disease
• Ehrlichiosis
• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Symptoms of these illnesses in dogs can include lethargy, fever, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a tick and is showing signs of illness, it’s important to consult a veterinarian promptly.

Due to ticks possibly causing further issues, we would suggest using products to prevent your dog from getting ticks in the future. If your dog has a habit of coming home with ticks, prevention products are key.

Can You See Ticks on Dogs?

Yes, you can often see ticks on dogs, especially once they’ve attached and begun to feed. They vary in size depending on their stage of development and whether they have fed recently. Ticks may appear as small, dark, or greyish bumps on the skin. They’re often found in less visible areas like behind the ears, between the toes, under collars, around the tail, or in the armpits.

Make sure you check your dog on a regular basis. This will help to identify ticks, and it will also help you to know what your dog’s body looks like, so you can identify future issues such as cuts or lumps.

Cat Tick Removal Without Tool

If you don’t have a tick removal tool handy, you can still remove a tick from your cat using fine-tipped tweezers. Here’s how:

1. Wear gloves to protect yourself.
2. Use the tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
3. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking.
4. After removal, clean the bite area with antiseptic.
5. Dispose of the tick by placing it in alcohol or flushing it down the toilet.

Do not try to burn the tick off or apply substances like petroleum jelly, as these can increase the risk of infection or cause the tick to regurgitate into the wound. Yes, cats can get ticks too although they may be harder to spot.

How to Kill Ticks on Dogs

To kill ticks on dogs:

• Topical treatments: Spot-on medications like fipronil or permethrin.
• Oral medications: Prescription pills such as NexGard, Bravecto, or Simparica.
• Tick shampoos and dips: These kill ticks on contact but may require regular reapplication.
• Tick collars: Provide long-term prevention and kill existing ticks. Always consult your vet before starting a new treatment, especially if your dog has health issues or is on other medications.

How Ticks Get on Dogs

Ticks get on dogs by “questing” — they wait on tall grass or shrubs with outstretched legs and latch on when a host brushes past. They are attracted to body heat, movement, and carbon dioxide. Once on a dog, a tick will crawl to a warm, hidden area and attach itself to feed.

How Ticks Look on Dogs

Ticks on dogs look like small, oval bumps on the skin. Before feeding, they are flat and brown or black, about the size of a sesame seed. After feeding, they swell and can become grayish or bluish, resembling a small wart or skin tag. They may be mistaken for scabs or skin lumps, so it’s important to inspect carefully, especially in common hiding spots like the ears, neck, and paws.

How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs

Preventing ticks involves a combination of protective measures:

• Tick prevention products: Use vet-recommended topical or oral preventatives regularly.
• Environmental control: Keep grass trimmed, clear brush, and avoid tick-heavy areas during peak seasons.
• Routine checks: Examine your dog after every walk or outdoor excursion.
• Tick collars: Use collars that contain tick-repellent chemicals for added protection.
• Regular grooming: Frequent baths and brushing can help you spot ticks early.

Tick Prevention Products

If you are looking for tick prevention products take a look below at some of the best products and at some of the products we use on our pups on a regular basis to prevent ticks.

How to Remove Ticks on Dogs

Removing ticks from your dog promptly and correctly is essential to prevent disease transmission and skin irritation. Follow these steps to ensure safe and effective removal.

What You’ll Need:

• Fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool
• Disposable gloves
• Antiseptic (such as rubbing alcohol or iodine)
• Small sealable container or plastic bag (for disposing of the tick)
• Optional: magnifying glass for better visibility

Step-by-Step Tick Removal Guide

1. Keep Your Dog Calm and Still
Gently restrain your dog or ask someone to help hold them steady. A calm environment will reduce stress for both you and your pet.

2. Wear Gloves
Put on gloves to protect yourself from potential pathogens that ticks may carry.

3. Locate the Tick
Inspect your dog’s skin thoroughly, especially in common tick hiding spots like the ears, neck, between the toes, under the collar, and around the tail.

4. Grasp the Tick Closely to the Skin
Using tweezers or a tick removal tool, grip the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible, aiming to grab the head or mouthparts.

5. Pull the Tick Out Slowly and Steadily
Apply even, steady pressure and pull the tick out in a straight motion. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off and remain embedded in the skin.

6. Inspect the Area
Check to ensure the entire tick has been removed. If parts of the mouth are still embedded, consult a veterinarian.

7. Dispose of the Tick Safely
Place the tick in a sealed container with rubbing alcohol to kill it. You can also save it for identification in case your vet needs it later.

8. Clean the Bite Area
Thoroughly clean the area with antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection.

9. Wash Your Hands
Even if you wore gloves, wash your hands thoroughly after the procedure.

Tick Removal Products

Are you looking for the perfect tool to remove ticks on dogs? Take a look at some of the products below to keep handy in case your dog or cat comes home with a tick and you need to remove it without going to the vets.

Ergo Dog Tick Tool

A Safe, Simple Solution for Tick Removal

• Effectively removes the entire tick, reducing the risk of infection
• Designed to avoid squeezing or leaving parts of the tick behind
• Easy to use, hygienic, and gentle on your pet’s skin

We’re also committed to sustainability. This product now comes in cardboard packaging that’s made from recycled materials and is widely recyclable.

How to Use:
Lift your dog’s fur to locate the tick. Position the tool flat against the skin and gently slide it back so the tick slips into the narrow end of the tool. Continue pulling slowly and steadily until the tick detaches. This method helps ensure clean removal, minimizing the chance of complications.

Buy yours here!