What is a tick?
Ticks are external parasites that feed on the blood of unlucky host animals such as our canine companions. Like mites and spiders, ticks are arachnids. The brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) and the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), examples of ticks that commonly affect dogs, require three feedings to complete their life cycles.
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How Are Ticks Transmitted to Dogs?
Ticks are most active in from spring through fall and live in tall brush or grass, where they may attach to dogs playing on their turf. These parasites prefer to stay close to the head, neck, feet and ear area. In severe infestations, however, they can be found anywhere on a dog’s body.

How Do I Know if My Dog Has Ticks?
Ticks are visible to the naked eye. During the warmer months, it’s a good idea to check your dog regularly for these parasites. If you do spot a tick, it is important to take care when removing it. Any contact with the tick’s blood can potentially transmit infection to your dog or even to you! Treat the area with rubbing alcohol and pluck the parasite with tweezers, making sure you’ve gotten the biting head and other body parts. You can also stop by our office anytime and pick up a complimentary “tick twister” which is a great tool you can use to safely remove a tick. Since it may only take a few hours for disease to be transmitted from an attached tick, it is ideal for your dog to be evaluated by a veterinarian soon after any ticks are found.

Are Certain Dogs Prone to Ticks?
Ticks can be found all over the world. But dogs who live in warm climates and certain wooded areas, where ticks are particularly prominent, might be more prone due to increased exposure.

What Are Some Complications Associated with Ticks in Dogs?

• Tick paralysis
• Skin irritation or infection
• Anemia

Ticks can also transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which can cause serious complications and are potentially fatal without prompt and proper treatment.

What can I do to prevent Ticks?
The best way to protect your pet from Ticks is by using a Tick prevention. There are many different products on the market today that help. Call and speak to a member of our health care team for a recommendation that is best for your pet.

Nexgard is a beef flavoured chewable tablet that is given once monthly. It is a safe and effective way to protect your dog.

Revolution is a topical solution applied directly to your pet skin once monthly. Revolution aids in tick control.


Please contact one of our clinics for more information on ticks and tick prevention.  
​One of our knowledgeable staff members would be glad to help you!