Ticks in dogs are external parasites that attach to the skin to feed on the animal’s blood. Beyond causing local discomfort, ticks can transmit serious diseases. These parasites often latch onto areas like the neck, back, or head, where the skin is thin and accessible. A tick can remain attached for 3 to 14 days before detaching once it is fully engorged.

Where do ticks hide on dogs?

Ticks can attach anywhere on your dog’s body, but they prefer:

• The neck
• The head
• The back
• The armpits
• Between the toes

Regular inspection of these areas is key to early detection of infestation.

How do dogs get ticks?

Ticks typically wait in tall grass, bushes, or on the ground, and they climb onto animals that brush past. Risk factors include:

• Warm seasons (spring through fall)
• Walks in wooded or grassy areas
• Migratory birds, which contribute to tick spread by transporting them across regions, including Quebec

What diseases do ticks transmit to dogs?

Ticks can carry several harmful pathogens that may cause serious illness in dogs, such as:

• Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi)
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Rickettsia rickettsii)
• Anaplasmosis and granulocytic ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia ewingii)
• Monocytic ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis)
• Babesiosis (Babesia divergens, Babesia microti)
• Tularemia (Francisella tularensis)

These diseases can cause symptoms like fever, joint pain, lethargy, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications if not treated promptly.

How to safely remove a tick from your dog?

To remove a tick properly, use a specialized tool like the Deticker®, designed to:

• Slide gently under the tick without crushing it
• Rotate slightly to detach the tick completely
• Reduce the risk of local inflammation by ensuring no mouthparts are left embedded in the skin

After removal:

• Thoroughly clean the bite area with an antiseptic
• Always wear gloves when handling ticks to avoid direct skin contact

How to prevent ticks on dogs?

Effective prevention includes the regular use of veterinary-approved antiparasitic treatments, such as:

• Spot-on solutions (pipettes)
• Tick-repellent collars
• Oral chewable tablets

💡 Tip: Preventive treatments are recommended from spring through fall, but may be needed year-round in high-risk areas.

Consult your veterinarian to select the most appropriate product for your dog’s lifestyle and exposure risks.