The Growing Threat of Ticks

New information is coming in from the front in the battle against tick-borne illness. The good news: the expense entailed in diagnosis has dropped. The bad news: the latest research finds that diseases caused by ticks strike more frequently than previously understood. As dog owners we need to be on alert to the increasing threat posed by ticks, particularly during this time of year stretching through early autumn.

The American Kennel Association informs us that “disease occurs when ticks infected with a pathogen, bite a dog or human and transmit the pathogen into the body.”

Ticks are travelling more than ever, they are carrying pathogen baggage and they are looking for a place to stay. And your dog is on their itinerary. Whether he is a giant Bernese Mountain dog or a tiny Maltipoo, a rambunctious retriever or a laid back King Charles, to a tick your dog is a four star hotel with ocean views.

What to look for

Search for Symptoms. Remember, dogs are generally not whiners. They are stoical about pain. It’s up to you to examine your dog for symptoms of a tick attack, especially after a walk in an area of high grass or thick growth.  Look for redness or swelling in the head, shoulder, ears and upper limbs.

Pay attention to these signs of potential tick-borne illness:

• Is your dog lethargic? Is she quieter than usual?
• Has her appetite declined? It’s a bad sign if she is turning down a treat.
• Are there any indications of lameness?
• Has her weight dropped?
• Is there discharge from her nose or eyes?
• Is she vomiting or suffering from diarrhea?

When to schedule a veterinary visit.

If your examination turns up one or two symptoms, even if they appear minor, take immediate action. If left untreated, the diseases caused by tick infection can result in major illnesses.

Rehabilitation begins with diagnostic testing which has become quicker and less expensive.

• Initial results come in within 24 hours.
• In almost all cases, testing leads us to correct diagnosis.
• Early diagnosis improves our chances of dealing with the problem.

Prevention

There are prevention products on the market to protect your dog against tick attacks. We encourage their use. Some do work better than others. We are happy to help you select the best product for your pet.

The Tip of the Spear

In the fight against ticks your vigilance is the tip of the spear. We stand ready to bring forth all of our resources and knowledge to support your efforts to protect your pet. To schedule an appointment, call (925) 934-8042 or complete the form on our new client page.