Tick removal service in Essex: What to do when you find ticks on your dog

It's Tick Bite Prevention Week this week so what better time to publish a guide on all things ticks? These tiny but dangerous pests are small parasites that can pose a serious threat to our furry friend's health and wellbeing, particularly in the UK. These creatures can transmit various diseases, making it crucial for pet owners to prioritise tick prevention and removal for their dogs during the warmer weather seasons. This guide offers practical advice, including preventive measures and efficient removal techniques, but here at Brentwood Bubbles 'N' Barks we will check for ticks whenever we groom your dogs, and we also offer a tick removal service.

Understanding Ticks

Ticks thrive in wooded and grassy areas where they can latch onto unsuspecting animals or humans. In the UK, the most common type is the sheep tick (Ixodes ricinus), known to carry Lyme disease. With around 2000-3000 cases of Lyme disease in humans in the UK diagnosed each year, this is an issue to be aware of. Ensuring you're aware of the risks associated with ticks will help protect your furry bestie from potential health issues.

Prevention Tips

Regularly Inspect Your Dog

One of the most effective ways to prevent ticks is to conduct regular checks on your dog, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas. Aim to check your dog at least once a week during peak tick season, which runs from spring to autumn. Look for ticks in hard-to-see places like behind the ears, between the toes, and around the tail.

Use Preventive Treatments

Consider using veterinary-approved tick prevention treatments. Options include spot-on treatments, oral medications, and tick collars. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best choice for your dog's size and lifestyle, particularly if you have a puppy or a dog with health concerns.

Keep the Environment Tidy

A well-maintained garden can significantly reduce tick habitat. Mow your lawn regularly, trim shrubs, and clear away tall grass and brush. Consider creating a tick-safe zone by placing gravel or wood chips around your pet' s outdoor space, which creates an inhospitable area for ticks.

How to Remove Ticks Safely

Very First Steps

If you find a tick on your dog, acting promptly but calmly is essential. Proper removal is crucial to prevent disease transmission. Remember, the sooner you remove a tick, the lower the risk of your dog contracting a disease. We offer a tick removal service here so give us a call on 07983 786875 for advice and to make a booking.

Use the Right Tools

Invest in a tick removal tool which will help you safely extract the tick without leaving parts behind. Alternatives like fine-tipped tweezers can be effective if a tick removal tool isn’t available.

The Removal Process

Grip the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible with the removal tool or tweezers.
Pull straight out with steady pressure: do NOT twist or jerk. This action may cause the tick’s mouth to break-off and remain embedded.
Clean the bite area with an antiseptic wipe to reduce the risk of infection.

If you are worried about doing this yourself, we are experts at tick removal.

Aftercare

Keep an eye on the area where the tick was attached for signs of irritation or unusual swelling in the days following removal. If you notice any adverse symptoms such as redness, swelling, or your dog showing signs of lethargy, consult your vet promptly. Being proactive can help safeguard your dog's health.

By being vigilant you can keep these horrible little critters at bay, so share this guide so that your fellow dog mums and dads are aware too!