Table of Contents
What a dead tick looks like
What should you do if you find a dead tick?
How to treat dog for ticks
How to prevent ticks coming back
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Finding a dead tick on dog - What should you do?
- By Hannah
-
- September 18, 2024
- 3 MIN READ
Not sure if you’ve found a dead tick on your dog? Is it just a piece of black fluff? Have a read to spot all the signs of ticks, what you should do if you find one and how to stop it from ever happening again!
What a dead tick looks like
Spotting a tick - dead or alive - on your furry friend can send a shiver down your spine. Ticks go through various stages in their lifecycle, and identifying them correctly is essential. Here's a quick look at what a dead tick can look like:
Identifying a dead tick on your dog may be easier than spotting a live one. A dead tick might appear shrivelled or flattened, and its body colour may change. However, it's crucial to remain vigilant, as ticks can transmit diseases even after death.
What should you do if you find a dead tick?
So, you've discovered a dead tick on your dog – after the small little bit of panic, what's your next move? Here's our step-by-step guide on what to do:
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Breathe - Finding a tick, dead or alive, ain't a pretty sight and can really cause us to get a little flustered, but try not to panic - it won't help you or your dog!
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Grab that tick hook - Place the hook as close to the skin’s surface as possible, twist and pull the tick from your pet’s skin. Be super careful not to crush the tick. Need more help on this? Read our how to remove a tick here.
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Bag it & bin it - Whether the tick is dead or alive, dispose of it carefully. Avoid crushing it with your fingers, as this can release potential disease-causing organisms. Instead, place it in a sealed container or bag.
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Clean the bite area - Clean the bite area on your dog's skin with an antiseptic, or soap and water to help prevent infection.
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Eyes on your pooch - Keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of illness or unusual behaviour. If you notice symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or lameness, chat to your vet.
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Note down the situation - Pop on your phone or write down when and where you found the tick. This information can be valuable if your dog exhibits any symptoms later on.
Remember, even if the tick is dead, take proper precautions to minimise any potential risks.
How to treat dog for ticks
Discovering a tick, dead or alive, prompts the need for further action to ensure your dog's well-being. Here's how to treat your dog for ticks:
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Use Tick Prevention Products - Prevention is always better than cure. Use Itch Flea Treatment for Cats and Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs which kills ticks and lice too - yay!
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Regular Tick Checks - Make tick checks a routine part of your grooming regimen. Run your hands over your dog's entire body, paying close attention to areas where ticks commonly latch on, such as the ears, neck, and between the toes.
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Invest in Tick Removal Tools - Tick removal tools like hooks can be handy for safe and effective tick removal. These tools help ensure you extract the entire tick without leaving any parts behind - so always good to have one on hand!
How to prevent ticks coming back
Prevention is the key to keeping ticks at bay and ensuring your dog remains tick-free. Here's how to prevent ticks from coming back:
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Always use tick prevention products
Be a hop ahead the ticks and use tick prevention products like Itch Flea Treatment which kills fleas, ticks AND lice! Using preventative treatment regularly keeps your pooch safe whatever the weather.
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Get the brush and hoover out
Regularly groom your dog and maintain a clean living environment. Hoovering your home, especially areas where your dog spends the most time, can help eliminate any ticks that may have dropped off.
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Avoid tick hang out spots
If possible, avoid areas known for high tick populations, like dense woods, tall grasses, and areas with abundant wildlife.
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Eyes peeled after being outdoors
After outdoor adventures, check your dog thoroughly for ticks. Pay close attention to areas where ticks are commonly found, such as the ears, neck, and between the toes.
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Keep your garden in check
If your dog spends time in your garden, keep the grass and plants trimmed. Ticks often lurk in tall grasses, waiting for an pet to pass by and latch onto.
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Read more than just this blog
Get on google and stay informed about tick-borne diseases in your area. Knowing the signs and symptoms allows you to prevent or catch them early, and if necessary visit the vet before it gets worse.
We know it's not ideal finding a dead tick on your dog but now you know the signs, how to prevent, you and your pet will be safer rather than sorry! It would be nice to avoid ticks all together so think smarter not harder and use tick prevention products like Itch Flea for Dogs and Itch Flea for Cats. Be one step ahead of those ticks, perform regular checks on your furball, and if the condition is severe, chat to our friendly team of experts, trained to advise you on your flea, tick and worming worries - help is here!
Say no to fleas, ticks AND lice!
Fleas, ticks and lice can be a nightmare, but with the right approach, you can take control and rid your pets and home of these bothersome pests. Remember that parasites can be persistent, so patience and regular treatment will be your best friends! By addressing both your pet and their environment, you can ensure a flea-free and comfortable living space for both your furry companion and your family.
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