Be Tick Aware! 4 Steps to Tick Control in Dogs

Serena Faber Nelson Founder & Pet Lifestyle Writer

Pet lifestyle expert Serena Faber-Nelson is the founder of Pretty Fluffy. A contributor to Everyday with Rachael Ray, Modern Dog Magazine, Cesars Way and more; her modern, stylized take on DIY dog treats has seen her recipes viewed millions of times over.

Serena is the author of the go-to dog mom bible, Dog Mama, and the popular dog treat recipe book, Healthy Homemade Dog Treats.

When you first get a dog, there are so many things to be on top of. Feeding, grooming, walking, socialisation…the list goes on and on. With the amount of things you have to remember, sometimes you need a cheat sheet. So today I’ve created a handy guide for keeping your pooch tick free in 4 simple steps!

1. T is for TREAT. Your #1 defense against ticks is prevention. Treating your dog with a flea and tick treatment on a regular basis keeps your pooch protected from the flea and tick life cycle – reducing the chances of these little critters setting up home in your dog’s fur! With a number of spot treatments and sprays on the market, you can easily find a preventative treatment suitable for you and your dog.

2. I is for INSPECT. Ticks like to hang out in the nooks and crevices of your dog’s body. Make sure you inspect your dog on a regular basis – during your dog’s brush for example – make it fun bonding experience! Run your hands all over your dog’s body, going against the grain of the fur, paying close attention to in and around the ears, armpits, between the toes, and within skin folds. You’re looking for an attached tick which can range from the size of a pencil tip to a baked bean when engorged. If you do find a tick contact your vet immediately who will be able to advise on the tick’s safe removal. While prevention is the #1 key to protecting your dog from ticks, inspecting your dog regularly gives that extra peace of mind.

3. C is for CLEAN. Ticks are often found in grassy and woodland areas, but can also show up in your everyday urban backyard. Keep your lawn freshly mowed, and hedges trimmed to prevent grassy build ups perfect for ticks to hide in. Wash and clean your pet’s bedding and blankets regularly.

4. K is for KEEP VIGILANT. Ticks can carry dangerous diseases – most notably the Paralysis Tick that produces a toxin which can be fatal in dogs. Some of the signs that your dog may have a Paralysis Tick include increased or laboured breathing, coughing, excessive salivation, vomiting and weakness or lameness in the hind legs. If you see any of these signs, be sure contact your vet immediately.

This post was brought to you by Frontline’s ‘Be Tick Aware’ Campaign. For more information on ticks and how to prevent them visit Frontline or follow along on Twitter @betickaware