Lets Talk About Ticks.
We’ve talked about fleas and mosquitoes, but now lets turn our attention to another pest that really TICKS off our furry companions….. TICKS! Here's a rundown of the common ticks that could be hitching a ride on your dog and what you need to know about them.
American Dog Tick
Overview: Also known as the wood tick, the American dog tick is prevalent in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. These ticks primarily feed on dogs in their adult form, while nymphs prefer smaller mammals like rodents. They are known carriers of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which can affect both humans and pets.
Identification:
Adult ticks are 0.3cm to 0.5cm long.
Nymphs are pale brown or white with six to eight legs.
Adults are primarily brown with white speckled patterns (males) or a crown-like pattern near the head (females).
Fully fed ticks can reach nearly the size of a dime.Brown Dog Tick
Overview: Brown dog ticks are a major nuisance for pet owners worldwide. These ticks can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments, often spreading in crowded canine areas such as groomers, dog boarding facilities, kennels, training centers, dog parks, and veterinary clinics. Brown dog ticks can transmit diseases to both humans and dogs.
Identification:
Adult ticks are 0.15cm to 0.13cm long.
All life stages are solid brown.
The body is elongated and narrow, swelling to the size of a raisin after feeding.
Black-Legged (Deer) Tick
Overview: The black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick, is a significant vector of Lyme disease in humans, with nearly 30,000 cases reported annually. Dogs can also contract Lyme disease from these ticks, though the incidence is lower.
Identification:
Adult ticks are 0.1cm to 0.3cm long.
Nymphs are pale brown or white with six to eight legs.
Adults are dark brown to black.
What to Do If You Find a Tick on Your Dog
Discovering a tick on your pet is never pleasant, but don’t panic. Follow these steps recommended by the Humane Society:
Check for Ticks: Regularly inspect your dog, especially after outdoor activities. Pay close attention to crevices such as behind the ears, leg joints, tail, and paws.
Verify: Ensure the bump is a tick and not a mole or bug bite. A close inspection may be necessary.
Remove Carefully: If comfortable, use tweezers and gloves to remove the tick. Pull slowly to remove the mouth and head as completely as possible.
Disinfect: Clean the bite area and wash your hands to prevent infection.
Monitor: Watch for any signs of distress, discomfort, or illness in your dog. Save the tick and consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned about tick-borne diseases.
Mosquito Elite is here for all your tick control needs. Call us today for a free quote and to learn more about our effective tick control services. Visit www.getmosquitoelite.com for more information.
