TICKS IN PETS: DISEASES AND PREVENTION

WHAT ARE TICKS?

Ticks are insects that feed on the blood of their hosts, including dogs. They vary in shape and size, but generally have a flat body and eight legs. These parasites are usually found inareas withtallvegetationand can jump on the fur of dogs when approached.

ALL PETS ARE TARGETS

Ticks, like the vast majority of parasites in the world, have no qualms about choosing their prey. Dogs and cats are their main target in urban areas and, in the rural world, livestock; but not only dogs and cats can be attacked by these arachnids, but also rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds... even reptiles can be parasitized.
In the case of animals that live indoors and do not have access to the outside is more complicated (rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents and captive birds) and, in these cases, we are usually the ones who have carried the parasite hooked in shoes, under coats or pants. To avoid this, it is advisable that, if we have been in a place with high weeds, with a high propensity to ticks or rural areas, we disinfect our shoes as soon as we arrive and we wash our clothes immediately before greeting our pet or entering his room. This is also extrapolable if we have small children at home, because in a carelessness they can step on the tick when it gets loose from the clothes and end up being bitten, being able to get sick.

TICKS ON DOGS

Ticks can have detrimental effects on the health of dogs. In addition to causing skin irritation and discomfort, these little creatures can transmit serious diseases, such as Lyme disease and babesiosis. Anemia and joint problems are also possible. Prevention is essential to protect our loyal companions.

EFFECTS OF TICKS ON DOGS

Symptoms of tick infestation in dogs can vary, but some common signs include:

1. Excessive Itching: The dog may scratch persistently due to irritation caused by tick bites.

2. Behavioral Changes: He may show lethargy or changes in his usual behavior.

3. Inflammation or redness: The presence of ticks may cause inflammation or redness in the affected area.

4. Lameness: If ticks transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, the dog may show lameness and joint pain.

5. Fever: The presence of ticks can cause fever in some cases.

6. Loss of appetite: Tick infestation can affect the dog's appetite, leading him to eat less.

7. Ocular or Nasal Discharge: In severe cases, ticks can transmit diseases that cause respiratory symptoms.

It is important to regularly check your dog for ticks, especially after being in tick-prone areas. If you observe any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

TICKS ON CATS

Ticks, those little intruders, not only cause itching and discomfort in our cats, but can also have serious consequences for their health. These parasites can transmit dangerous diseases, such as spotted fever, affecting the circulatory system of our beloved felines.

EFFECTS OF TICKS ON CATS

One of the most worrisome effects is the possibility of causing anemia in cats. Ticks feed on the blood of their hosts, and a severe infestation can lead to significant blood loss, weakening our furry friends.

In addition, tick bites can trigger skin irritations, causing intense itching and possibly secondary infections if not properly treated.

In severe cases, ticks can also transmit toxins and affect internal organs, compromising the overall health of cats.

Prevention is key to avoiding these negative effects. From regular checkups to using veterinarian-recommended deworming products, there are steps we can take to protect our felines from these tiny but potentially dangerous invaders. Keep your cats safe and healthy.

TICK-BORNE DISEASES IN DOGS

1. LYME DISEASE: It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and can cause symptoms such as lameness, fever,loss of appetite and joint problems if not treated properly.

2. EHRLICHIOSIS: It is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia canis and can damage several organs in dogs, including the kidneys, liver andbone marrow. Common symptoms include fever,loss of appetite, lethargy and abnormal bleeding.

3. ANAPLASMOSIS: It is caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum and/or Anaplasma platys and is characterized by fever,lossof appetite, lethargy and respiratory problems.

4. BABESIOSIS: It is caused by a parasite called Babesia canis, which infects the red blood cells of dogs. Symptoms include fever, weakness, dark urine and mucosal pallor.

PREVENTION

Prevention is key to avoid tick-borne diseases in our dogs. Here are some preventive measures:

1. REGULARLY EXAMINE YOUR DOG: Meticulously check your dog's coat for ticksafter every walk outdoors.Pay special attention to areas such as ears, neck, paws and armpits.

2. USE ANTI-PARASITE PRODUCTS: Consult your veterinarian or pet professional about the most appropriate anti-parasite products for your dog. These may include repellent collars, pipettes, sprays or special shampoos. Always follow the instructions for use to ensure efficacy.

3. KEEP THE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN: Keep your garden or yard tidy and free of tall weeds. Mow yourlawn regularly and remove any objects that may be potential tick harborage.

4. GO TO THE VETERINARIAN REGULARLY: Take your dog for regular veterinary check-ups. Animal health professionals will be able to examine your pet for ticks and give you additional advice on prevention and proper treatment.

5. DO NOT FORGET GROOMING APPOINTMENTS: During grooming sessions the groomer will check your dog's skin and remove any ticks found, after this discovery it is advisable to do diagnostic tests for the main tick-borne diseases. Appointments at the groomer should never be longer than two or three months, for the health of your dog and your family.

6. DO NOT GO TO POTENTIALLY "DANGEROUS" AREAS: Avoid parks, forests or rural areas during the warmer seasons, especially if other dog owners have warned of a possible tick infestation.

CONCLUSION

Ticks represent a threat to the health of our dogs, since they can transmit serious diseases. However, with proper prevention and care, we can reduce the risk of infection.Keep your dog protected by examining him regularly, using anti-parasitic products, keeping his environment clean, vaccinating him and consulting your veterinarian. In this way, you will be able to provide a safer and healthier life for your faithfulcompanion.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. MY DOG WEARS ANTI-TICK COLLAR AND ANTI-STICK PIPETA, WHY DOES HE HAVE TICKS?: There are times when the influx of ticks is so strong that even taking all possible precautions they end up parasitizing our dog, grooming sessions in these seasons (spring-summer-autumn) or if we live in hot areas are especially important to prevent and eliminate them.

2. CAN SPIDERS MAKE ME AND MY FAMILY SICK?: Yes, some diseases such as Lyme disease can be transmitted to humans through the bite, that is why prevention is so important .

3. HOW CAN I REMOVE A TICK FROM MY DOG?: If our dog has a tick, we can remove it with tweezers, being careful, making sure that when we remove it, the head has also come out and it has not remained inside the dog's skin, since we could cause an infection. If we do not dare, the best thing to do is to go to the veterinarian.

4. IN MY CITY THERE IS A PLAGUE OF GARRAPATAS, CAN I DO SOMETHING?: You must notify the city council, since they are responsible for fumigating parks, public gardens and river banks to prevent their proliferation and to stop the problem.