Purrfect Paws - Pet Tips
From time to time we'll publish information that you may find helpful in caring for your pet. Check back often for updates.
Here's a great handout for you to download, Pet Safety: Surviving the Dog Days of Summer.
Tick Management
Checking for Ticks
Check your dog for ticks every day, especially during tlck season: spring, summer and fall. Brush your fingers through their fur applying enough pressure to feel any small bumps. Be sure to check between your dog's toes, behind ears, under armpits and around the tail and head, too. If you do feel a bump, pull the fur apart to see what's there. A tick that has embedded itself in your dog will vary in size, something from the size of a pinhead to a grape depending on how long its been attached. Ticks are usually black or dark brown in color but will turn a grayish-white after feeding in what's referred to as an engorged state.
Removing Ticks
Removing embedded ticks is a delicate operation because it's easy for a piece of the tick to break off and remain In your dog's skln if done
improperty. Follow the removal steps below or consider bringing your dog to a veterinartan who can safely perform the task and, possibly, show you bow it's done. Infection can occur after 24 hours, so , if you find a tick on your dog remove it right away. Always wear rubber
gloves to protect yourself from passlble injury or infection.
- Grasp the tick very close to the skin with a pair of fine-tipped tweezers.
- With a steady motion, pull the tick's body away from the skin. Avoid crushing the tick to prevent infection.
- After removal, clean your dog's skin with soap and warm water and dispose of the tick by placing it in alcohol or flushing it down the toilet.
Followlng these steps can help ensure the successful removal of tlcks. Never use petroleum jelly, a hot match, nail polish or other products to remove a tick. Doing so can harm your dog and may cause an embedded tick to release more disease-carrying saliva. Any questions or concerns contact your veterinarian.