As soon as temperatures rise, the best time of the year begins for many dogs: long walks, meadows, forests, and shared adventures. But that is also exactly when ticks on dogs are particularly active. These tiny parasites are not only unpleasant – they can transmit serious diseases and should therefore not be underestimated.
So that you can enjoy the warm season worry-free, it is important to know how ticks transmit diseases, which symptoms you should take seriously, and how to protect your dog as best as possible.
Why are ticks dangerous for dogs?
Ticks belong to the class of arachnids and feed on the blood of their host. The danger lies not in the bite itself or the minor blood loss, but in the possible transmission of pathogens. While feeding, bacteria, viruses, or parasites from the tick's saliva or gut enter the dog's body.
The best-known diseases include Lyme borreliosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and FSME. Some of these diseases are mild, while others can have serious consequences – especially if they are not detected in time. This is why regular coat checks and a watchful eye are crucial.
What symptoms can indicate a tick infection?
The signs of a tick-borne disease are often non-specific and may only develop days or weeks after the bite. Many dogs initially show fatigue, loss of appetite, or appear unusually quiet. Fever, lameness, or swollen lymph nodes can also be indications.
You should pay particular attention if your dog suddenly shows joint pain or is reluctant to move. In rare cases, neurological symptoms such as coordination problems or seizures occur. At the latest then, a veterinary examination should definitely take place. An early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of treatment.
Recognizing ticks on dogs – how to do it properly
After every walk – especially in wooded areas or tall grass – it is advisable to examine your dog thoroughly. Ticks prefer well-vascularized, thin-skinned areas. These include the head area, ears, armpits, belly, and the areas between the toes.
A tick bite often appears as a small reddened bump. The earlier a tick is discovered and removed, the lower the risk of disease transmission, as many pathogens are only transmitted after several hours.
Removing ticks properly: Stay calm
Despite precautions, it can happen that a tick has bitten on firmly. It is important to stay calm and remove the tick as quickly as possible, but in a controlled manner. Use special tick forceps or tweezers and grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull it out slowly and straight, without squeezing the body. Afterwards, the bite area should be disinfected.
If the tick is torn off and parts remain in the skin, local inflammation can occur. In this case, a veterinarian should check the area.
How can I protect my dog from ticks?
A hundred percent protection from ticks does not exist, yet the risk can be significantly reduced. There are various preparations such as spot-on solutions, collars, tablets, or sprays that repel or kill ticks. Which option is suitable depends on your dog's lifestyle, age, and individual risk. A consultation with the veterinarian is recommended here.
In addition to chemical protective agents, your dog's general health also plays a role. A stable skin barrier and a strong immune system help the body to better process external stresses.
Bello's Tip:
Especially during tick season, it is worth supporting the skin and coat specifically. Our Skin & Coat Drops contain natural nutrients such as salmon oil, biotin, and brewer's yeast and contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat – a valuable addition to external tick prophylaxis.
Conclusion: Awareness instead of panic
Unfortunately, ticks are part of everyday dog life. However, with regular checks, quick removal, and a well-thought-out protection concept, you can significantly reduce the risk. This keeps summer carefree for you and your dog.
Anita Lorber
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