Ticks are one pest you and your dog can pickup during outdoor activities, which carries a risk of disease transmission. This fascinating macro video of ticks attaching to human skin and feeding on blood and demonstrates removal.
Talk to your vet about the risk of ticks in the areas where you live and travel. (For example, ticks are increasingly being reported to vets in Calgary) .
Be prepared to remove ticks from you and your dog at the end of each outing, to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Start by inspecting, feeling the dog’s coat like you would when checking for burrs. Don’t forget to check the mouth and feet. Here’s what ticks may look like on the underside of a dog’s paw, while feeding: https://www.facebook.com/alphensehondenbezitter/photos/a.355310064665366.1073741828.354854811377558/790975851098783/?type=3&theater. It is better to remove the tick as soon as possible, before it feeds and drops off.
Keeping a tick removal tool in your vehicle can be helpful, so you’re prepared when you need one. We like this version, which includes a built-in light: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00YDQJK9Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 . It’s also useful for splinters. (We also keep scissors with our canine first aid kit.)
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), here are the steps for successfully removing ticks:
- Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible
- Pull directly upward. Do not twist or you run the risk of leaving hooked mouth parts behind
- Thoroughly clean the area
- Store in alcohol, in a sealed bag, or wrapped in tape.
Once removed, keep the tick in a container and ask your vet to identify the species and make recommendations on appropriate treatment. Stay safe in your adventures!
RESOURCES
- Removing a Tick, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, downloaded from https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html
