The only good thing about ticks is that they are easy to spot. Unlike fleas, these big, black, blood-sucking insects don’t specialize in camouflage. Specifically, the body of a tick is about three times the size of a flea. Ticks are also easy to catch because they don’t move around much. Call them lazy, call them content. Whatever the reason, once a tick has buried their heads into an animal’s skin, they stay put.
Blood is Blood
The tick is probably as close as we are going to get to a real-life vampire. These blood sucking insects are not only a nuisance to animals but go after humans as well. Any warm blooded creature is a target so preventative measures are a must. Ticks are often found in heavily wooded areas and can carry a slew of serious diseases. Common transmittable diseases from tick to animal include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and more. Common side effects of a diseased tick-bite include loss of appetite, joint pain, and fever. Monitor your pet closely and if any of the above symptoms occur for more than a short period of time, check your pet for ticks and see a veterinarian immediately. These diseases can often be fatal in pets.
To avoid the uncomfortable and often serious aftermath of a tick bite, make sure to equip your pet with the proper preventive care, including tick collars if you live in or are visiting a densely wooded area.
Don’t Hedge Your Bets, Check Your Pet
Even if you are diligent about preventative care, pet owners should still take the time to check their pets for ticks. Ticks will be easy to spot due to their size, color and shape. Also, ticks are often found near the head, neck, and ears of an animal, while fleas (their blood-sucking partner in crime) prefer the rear. Ticks are large enough that they can often be felt by simply running your hand across your dog or cat’s fur. As ticks continue to fill themselves with blood, they become a lighter brown color.
Ticks, like fleas, also causes skin irritation. So pay attention to your pet! If you witness red marks, excessive scratch, or hair loss, these could be symptoms of a tick bite.
More Flea and Tick Control Advice
Using Flea and Tick Treatment Safely
Do I Need to Protect My Pet After Flea Season?
How to Get Rid of a Tick
Flea and Tick Season: When to Use What Treatment
What if My Dog Eats a Flea or Tick?
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice due to what you may have read on our website.