Ticks and Dogs: Busting Myths

Let's talk about ticks and dogs. You might have heard some things about ticks that aren't true. Let's clear up those myths!

Myth #1: Only dogs that go into the woods get ticks.

Fact: Ticks live where the animals they feed on live. It doesn't matter if it's in the city, suburbs, or countryside. They like tall grass, bushes, and plants along paths. Ticks don't fall from trees, but they can climb. Some types of ticks can even wait up to three feet off the ground for a host.

Ticks wait on grass, weeds, or bushes for animals or people to pass by. When you or your dog brush against them, they climb onto you or your pet. Once they find a spot on the skin, they attach and feed. After feeding, ticks drop off and wait for their next meal. Young ticks hang out in leaf litter or under trees and may jump onto a host when the leaves are disturbed.

Myth #2: Cold weather kills ticks.

Fact: Ticks don't die in winter, even in cold places. Some sleep, some hide under leaves, some move indoors, and some stay on animals. Snow actually helps them survive the cold. Adult ticks, like the ones that carry Lyme disease, start feeding around the first frost. They hide under leaves or other plants in winter. But during warm spells in winter, ticks can wake up and look for hosts. So, ticks are active in all seasons.

Myth #3: Ticks spread diseases right away when they bite.

Fact: Ticks can carry diseases, but not all ticks are infected. Most tick bites don't make people or pets sick. How long it takes for a tick to spread disease depends on the tick and the disease. Some bacteria can be passed within hours of attachment, while others need more than a day. The key is to remove ticks quickly to prevent diseases. Ask your vet about the best tick control for your dog.

Myth #4: If a dog gets a Lyme disease vaccine, they don't need tick treatment.

Fact: Lyme disease is just one of the diseases ticks can spread. Even if your dog is vaccinated against Lyme disease, they can still get other tick-borne illnesses. So, it's important to use tick control products and check your dog for ticks regularly, even if they're vaccinated.

Myth #5: You can remove a tick with a hot match or nail polish.

Fact: These tricks might not work and can hurt your dog. Using fire to remove a tick can burn your pet's skin. Nail polish or petroleum jelly might suffocate the tick, but it takes too long. The best way is to use tweezers. Grab the tick close to the skin and pull it out gently. Don't twist or jerk, or the tick's mouth could stay in the skin. After removing the tick, clean the wound with soap and water. If you're unsure, ask your vet for help.

So, what should you do now? Talk to your vet about the right tick control for your dog. And always check your dog for ticks after going outside. Ticks like to hide in places your dog can't easily reach, like the neck, lower back, and tail base. If you get into the habit of checking these spots, you can help keep your furry friend safe from ticks.

If you see any ticks and  symptoms Contact pet hospital near me and address the issue promptly.

Contact Pet Chikitsa Pet Care. Our team of experienced veterinarians will work with you to provide the best possible care for your furry friend.

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