Ticks

What is that?

The tick is a parasite affecting humans and animals that feeds off blood by inserting their head into their host's skin. 

Preferred areas on the dog

The tick can be found anywhere on the dog's body, but particularly on it's neck, back, or head. 

Mode of transmission

The tick climbs onto the dog from the ground or drops off of tall grass when it feels the vibrations created by it as it's passing. 

It will stay on it's hosts for 3 to 14 days and will let go once it has had it's blood meal. 

It is important to note that migratory birds are significant vectors f ticks from the United States. 

Diseases transmitted by ticks

Ticks can transmit several diseases to dogs: Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (Rickettsia rickettsii), anaplasmosis or granulocytic ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia ewingii), monocytic ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis), babesiosis (Babesia divergens, Babesia microti), tularemia (Francisella tularensis), etc.

The treatment

A Deticker® can be used to remove a tick. It is a small plastic tool, whose shape is reminiscent of a crowbar, that is inserted between the skin and the tick. 

By rotating the tool, the tick eventually detaches itself without leaving behind any mouth pieces that can cause a localised inflammatory reaction. Once the tick has been removed, the area where it was should be cleaned. 

It is recommended to have the tick sent to the Laboratoire de Santé Publique du Québec to identify it and determine if it carries any diseases such as Lyme disease, for example, who prevalence is increasing in Quebec. 

Gloves should be worn when handling ticks to avoid contact with the skin. 

Prevention

Different products exist, that are safe and efficient, which can be administered to dogs for the prevention of a tick infestation. 

Their frequency, method of administration, and mode of action vary. However, the treatment period recommended is between spring and fall every year, regardless of the product chosen 

Do not hesitate to ask one of our staff members for advice. He or she will be able to provide you with sound advice on the antiparasitic product best suited for your pet.