Ticks in Dogs: Prevention, Risks, and Effective Solutions in Spring?

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With warmer weather and rising temperatures, some spring hazards are making a comeback — especially ticks.

This represents a significant risk for our four-legged companions. These tiny parasites can transmit a range of diseases that can be dangerous for dogs. It is therefore essential to understand how to protect them effectively.

What is a tick?
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Ticks are small mites - only a few inches - that feed on blood. They attach to the skin of humans and animals, including dogs, and can transmit serious diseases. Ticks go through several stages of development: larva, nymph, and adult. Each stage requires a blood meal to evolve to the next stage.

Ticks are often found in tall grass, woods, and brush. They detect body heat and carbon dioxide emitted by their potential hosts. As soon as they find their victim, they latch on as they pass by!

Once attached, they insert their mouthparts into the skin to feed on blood. They can remain attached for several days, increasing the risk of disease transmission. According to Santé Vet, it takes them an average of 3 to 7 days to engorge themselves with blood. Once this period has passed, they drop off.

The risks of a tick bite for dogs
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Ticks can transmit several serious diseases to dogs. Generally, it is considered that it takes at least 24 hours for a disease to pass from the tick to your companion. Among the most common are the following diseases:

Lyme disease (or borreliosis): Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, it can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and joint pain. As in humans, it can lead to serious complications like chronic arthritis if not treated.
Ehrlichiosis: Caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia, this disease can lead to various symptoms. These include fever, lethargy, weight loss, and abnormal bleeding. Infected dogs may also suffer from neurological disorders if the disease is not diagnosed and treated quickly.
Babesiosis: Transmitted by the parasite Babesia, it affects red blood cells, leading to anemia, weakness, and jaundice. This disease can be particularly severe and require immediate veterinary intervention.

Symptoms of tick-borne diseases can appear weeks or even months after the bite. It is therefore essential to carefully monitor your dog and consult a veterinarian at the first sign of concern.

Where are ticks found?
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Ticks prefer humid and wooded environments. They are often found in places suitable for walking:

Forests: Wooded areas provide an ideal habitat for ticks. Dogs walking in these areas are particularly at risk. With dense vegetation and wild animals, it’s a perfect playground for these parasites.
Meadows and fields: Tall grass and brush are favored spots for these parasites. Ticks climb onto blades of grass and wait for a host to pass by.
Parks and gardens: Even urban green spaces can harbor ticks, especially if the areas are frequented by other animals. Ticks can also be found in private gardens, particularly if they are visited by wild animals like deer or foxes.

Seasonality plays a crucial role in tick activity. They are generally more active in spring and fall, although some species can be present year-round in milder climates. Dog owners need to be particularly vigilant during these peak periods.

How to prevent tick bites?
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Prevention is key to protecting your dog against ticks. Here are some effective methods:

Preventive treatments: Using anti-tick collars, pipettes, or tablets can be enough to prevent tick bites. These products are available from veterinarians and pet stores. They are designed to kill or repel ticks before they can attach to your dog. It is important to follow the product instructions and adhere to application schedules for maximum effectiveness.

⚠️ Many owners today notice a decrease in their effectiveness. Over the years, ticks may have become accustomed to these products, making them more or less effective.
Shampoos and sprays: Topical products can also help prevent tick infestations. Use anti-tick shampoos regularly, especially after walks in high-risk areas. Sprays can be applied directly to the dog’s coat before outings for added protection.
Regular checks: After each walk, carefully examine your dog, especially around the ears, neck, legs, and belly. Ticks can be the size of a pinhead, so it’s crucial to be thorough. Use a fine comb to inspect the coat and check for ticks.
Avoid high-risk areas: During walks, try to stay on trails and avoid tall grass and wooded areas, especially during periods of high tick activity. If possible, choose walking areas where vegetation is well-maintained and the risk of encountering ticks is reduced.

What to do if your dog gets a tick bite?
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If you find a tick on your dog, it is important to remove it correctly to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Here’s how to proceed:

Use a tick remover: Specific tools are available to safely remove ticks. Avoid using your fingers or tweezers, as this can compress the tick and increase the risk of pathogen transmission. Tick removers are designed to grasp the tick without crushing it.
Grasp the tick close to the skin: Place the tick remover as close to the dog’s skin as possible and pull gently but firmly. Make sure to remove the tick’s head. A slow and steady pull is more effective than sudden movements.
Disinfect the area: After removing the tick, clean the bite area with an antiseptic to prevent infection. You can use 70% alcohol or a skin disinfectant to clean the area.
Monitor your dog: Note the date of the bite and monitor your dog for any signs of illness. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. Keep an eye out for signs of local infection, such as redness or swelling.
Consult a veterinarian: If the tick has been attached for a long time or if you cannot remove it completely, consult your veterinarian for assistance. The veterinarian can also advise on measures to prevent future infestations. And in addition, if you have dog insurance, it will cost you (almost) nothing!

Rest assured: in most cases, the first three steps are enough to get your pup back on track!

Invoxia’s Biotracker helps you monitor symptoms
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You’ve enjoyed a nice walk in the forest, your dog has run in nature… and unfortunately, a tick took the opportunity to latch on and bite. In the best-case scenario, you quickly notice it and remove it, and everything is fine for your dog. But there is still a risk: the longer the tick stays on your dog, the higher the risk of it transmitting a disease - with symptoms that can appear several months later!

That’s where Invoxia’s Biotracker comes into play. Of course, you will see some symptoms at first glance. But sometimes, that’s not enough, and you don’t really notice a change. Thanks to its activity tracking, you can monitor your dog’s appetite and energy level. A decrease in activities may indicate fatigue, joint pain, or even the onset of lethargy, which are symptoms of tick-borne diseases. As soon as you notice such behavioral changes, it’s important to make an appointment with your veterinarian.

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Ticks pose a significant danger to dogs, especially in spring. However, by being informed and taking preventive measures, you can effectively protect your companion. Remember: prevention is always the best strategy against ticks! Use preventive treatments, regularly check your dog, and avoid high-risk areas to minimize your chances of encountering one of these pests. In case of a bite, be sure to remove the tick correctly and monitor for symptoms of illness.