Ticks are a common danger to pets, and it’s important to make sure your furry loved one is avoiding them. Here are some quick tips for protecting your favorite pets:
1. Invest in a preventative tick treatment for your pet. This is the easiest and most important way to prevent tick related illness in your pet. Just remember that a prevention is just that: a prevention; not elimination. Ask your vet about the best options for your furry friend.
2. Ticks are common in high grasses, so make sure you keep your yard mowed to make it a safe environment for your pet to play in.
3. Check your pet daily for ticks. Focus heavily on the insides of ears, on the paws and between the toes, under the tail, on the stomach, underneath collars and other creases. Ticks can range in size and color so be extra cautious.
4. When you get your dog checked for heartworm disease, you can also run tests for tick-related diseases. Ask your AHOM vet about screenings next time you’re in the office. Unfortunately, this test cannot be run on cats.
5. Never use a bug spray on your pet. Though these work great for humans, they can cause irritation, vomiting, and even seizures in your furry friend.
If you do find a tick, it’s important to remove it safely. Follow this simple procedure:
Using tweezers, grab the tick as close to the body as possible without pinching your pet. Pull slowly to make sure all parts of the tick are removed from your pet.
After removing the tick, clean the affected area with antiseptic. Clean the tool with rubbing alcohol and flush the tick down the toilet.
Monitor your dog for symptoms of Lyme disease, especially after finding a tick. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, come into Animal Hospital of Mebane immediately. Common signs of Lyme disease include:
Fever
Appetite loss
Reduced energy
Joint swelling
Follow these tips, and your pet is ready to spend a summer day outside without worrying about those pesky ticks!