Caring for your dog means more than just feeding and walking it. It also means taking preventative measures to keep your dog safe from harmful insects like ticks. Ticks have the potential to be annoying pests that can carry diseases, which in turn can be debilitating for dogs. Continue reading as a local vet Spring Hill, TN discusses effective ways to keep your canine tick-free.

What is a tick?

A tick is a very small parasite that feeds on the blood of its host. They are typically black or brown and come from the arachnid family so they share many of the same physical characteristics as spiders. Also, ticks can live anywhere from a few months to two years old. Ask your nearest veterinarian Spring Hill, TN on ways to identify ticks on your dogs.

Where do ticks reside?

You will usually find ticks in wooded areas where there are a lot of trees, shrubs, and forestry. The tall grass is the perfect place to hide and wait for a new person or animal to hop on. Ticks can survive in multiple types of environments. So if they attach themselves to your dog, they can easily find their way into your home and wreak havoc. Your local vet clinic Spring Hill, TN can provide you with more information on keeping ticks out.

Tick symptoms in dogs

You know your dog’s habits better than anyone. If your dog is constantly licking and chewing on a particular patch of skin on its body, you might be looking at a tick problem. If you’re still not sure about this newfound licking and chewing habit, don't wait any longer. Bring your dog to the local animal hospital Spring Hill, TN, and let them take a closer look at it.

Red skin

A tick’s presence on a dog can make the dog’s skin become inflamed. If you notice this red, swollen skin or happen to notice anything that looks like a rash, don’t take it lightly. Bring your dog to your veterinary clinic Spring Hill, TN for further diagnosis.

Anemia

One tick can cause damage to your dog, so the presence of multiple ticks can wreak even more havoc. These ticks can feast on the dog’s blood, which can cause the dog to become anemic. This particularly affects smaller dog breeds and puppies who don’t have much body mass, to begin with. If your dog suddenly becomes anemic, immediately take it to the nearest pet clinic Spring Hill, TN.

Head-shaking

A dog who constantly shakes its head may not necessarily be doing so out to say “no.” It might be battling ticks that have gotten stuck in its ear, either in the ear canal or on the outer ear flap. If you notice your dog constantly shaking its head or pawing at its ear, this could be a sign of tick infestation. Be sure to see a vet Spring Hill as a precautionary measure.

You can learn a lot more about how to battle ticks when it comes to your dogs. Simply make an appointment at your veterinarian Spring Hill, TN today.