Walking in nature can trigger a tick attack. Moreover, for humans they are less dangerous than for animals. Most often it is the dogs that suffer because of their activity in moving along the grass and low bushes, where parasites gather mainly in spring and autumn. If a dog is bitten by a tick, then the owner of the animal needs to know about the possible consequences and methods of treatment in order to save the animal from complete infection of the body.
What threatens the tick?
Ticks themselves are almost harmless. They feed on the blood of living things, digging a small head into the skin of the victim. After the hunger is satisfied, the parasite disappears by itself, without causing harm. If the dog is bitten by a tick, then redness and a small tumor can form in this place, which gradually passes. However, this type of parasite often carries on itself extremely dangerous diseases. The dog is threatened with pyroplasmosis - an infection of the body with a possible fatal outcome.
Bite symptoms
If the dog was bitten by a tick, then this is visible. The parasite remains on the victim’s skin for a long time, and due to its large size, it will not be difficult to find it. Upon careful examination of the animal, a swelling with a mite protruding from there will be noticeable. The dog may try to get rid of the parasite on its own: in rare cases, it causes itching or pain.
How to get rid of a tick?
If a tick is found on the dog's body, it must be removed. To do this, take tweezers, grab the parasite by the body closer to the skin of the dog and pull it with a slight movement counterclockwise. The tick in this case should exit completely, along with the head. If part of it remains in the skin, then it is better to consult a doctor, as this can lead to serious suppuration. In some cases, the head falls off by itself. After removing the parasite, the bite site must be treated with an antiseptic and, just in case, show the dog to the veterinarian - to exclude the likelihood of infection.
Tick bitten by a dog : symptoms of infection
Even after releasing the dog from the tick, it is too early to calm down. If a dog is bitten by a tick, and there is no way to consult a doctor, then you must carefully monitor the animal. When the parasite is a carrier of the disease, symptoms of infection of the dog appear only a few hours after the bite. At this time, the animal becomes lethargic, refuses to eat, sleeps a lot, his temperature rises. The eyes become reddened and dull, swelling of the limbs may appear. After a few days, blood forms in the urine, the dog begins to vomit bile. If help is not provided, the animal will die.
A tick bit a dog : treatment
Self-medication is not worth it - it's a waste of time. Only a doctor is able to determine the disease and prescribe suitable drugs. Moreover, treatment should be prescribed by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The breeder will have to regularly monitor the condition of the animal in order to prevent its deterioration. The younger the dog, the easier it will tolerate the disease. Unfortunately, it is extremely rare to save old dogs.