As any pet owner knows, our furry friends are susceptible to a variety of parasites, including fleas, mites, and ticks. Of these, ticks are perhaps the most dangerous, as they can transmit a number of serious diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. That’s why it’s so important to check your pet for ticks after spending any time outside. If you find a tick on your dog or cat, immediately remove it using specialized removal tool. If a tick remains unnoticed on your pet for a long period of time, tick paralysis may occur. So be sure to keep an eye out for these pesky critters, and protect your pets from the dangers of tick-borne illness.
Symptoms of this include:
- Change of barking pitch
- Difficult breathing
- Vomiting
- Paralysis
If tick paralysis is left untreated, it can lead to death.
Ticks and your dog
Ticks are parasites that attach themselves to their host in order to feed on their blood. Although they are most commonly found on pets, they can also be found on humans. Ticks can carry a number of diseases, including Lyme disease, which can be transmitted to both pets and humans. Applying a flea and tick product to your pet is certainly a good idea, but be sure you are using the correct type: most products meant for dogs are toxic to cats. If you’re not sure which product to use, ask your veterinarian for recommendations. In addition, be sure to check your pet regularly for ticks, and remove any that you find right away. By taking these simple precautions, you can help protect your pet – and yourself – from tick-borne illnesses.
