‘Tick’ing bombs: How to protect your dog from these dangerous parasites

Ticks are the silent predators of the canine world—tiny, blood-sucking parasites that latch onto your dog’s body and feed on its blood. Their small size belies the danger they pose, as these pests often carry diseases that can compromise your furry friend’s health.

Think winter offers a break from ticks? Not really. In milder climates, ticks remain active, lurking in warm, wooded areas, ready to attack. According to J S Rama Krishna, business head at Carniwel, the most common ticks in India include the Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick), Ixodes hexagonus (castor bean tick), and Dermacentor species. While colder weather might slow their activity, they continue to hide in dark, cosy corners of your home.

These blood-sucking parasites can transmit manifold diseases to your furry friend, ranging from Lyme disease to tick paralysis, and tick-borne fever to ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. These infections often manifest in your pooch with symptoms like fever, lethargy, joint pain, and, in severe cases, organ failure if left untreated.

Ticks appear as small, round, or oval-shaped parasites that attach to your dog’s skin. They often look like dark, swollen bumps. (Source- Pexels)

“Ticks appear as small, round, or oval-shaped parasites that attach to your dog’s skin. They often look like dark, swollen bumps. Check your dog’s ears, neck, armpits, and between the toes for ticks, as these areas are more likely to harbour them,” said Krishna.

Preventive measures and treatment

Ideally, one should check their dogs for ticks after every walk, especially after walks in grassy or wooded areas. “Ticks can attach within hours, so frequent checks are essential to prevent potential tick-borne diseases and to remove them promptly,” said Krishna.

Once you spot a tick, it is recommended to remove it immediately using “fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull gently without twisting,” Krishna said. Clean the area with antiseptic and watch for signs of infection.

If you notice signs of infections such as lethargy, or fever or if your dog begins to skip meals, consult your veterinarian at the earliest. If the problems persist, the veterinarian may guide you to use anti-tick solutions.

These may include a variety of spot-on treatments, tick collars, oral medications, and sprays. However, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian to evaluate your dog’s specific needs based on its health, breed, and lifestyle.

Some pet owners opt for natural tick repellents like diluted essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, citronella) or apple cider vinegar sprays. “These methods may not be as effective as chemical treatments. Always consult your vet before trying them,” said Krishna.