As a dog owner, you want to ensure your furry friend is safe from ticks and their potentially dangerous bites. However, this is often easier said than done, mainly if you and your pet spend a lot of time outdoors. In addition to regular flea and tick sprays from the veterinarian, there are a few steps you can take to limit tick exposure. 

5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe from Ticks

1. Apply Preventive Solutions

There are several preventive solutions against ticks. Tick sprays or topical insecticides can be a wise choice if you’re heading outside, particularly in the woods where ticks are more prevalent. You can also incorporate a tick-repelling shampoo into your dog’s bathing regimen. If you’re unsure about what brands to get, talk to your veterinarian about what’s best, depending on your pet’s size and breed.

2. Avoid Wooded Areas

Ticks thrive in dense, wooded areas, particularly where there’s thick brush to hide in. In general, you want to avoid heavily wooded areas as much as possible. If you do decide to venture out, be sure to stay on a clear trail and make sure your dog stays by your side at all times. After walking, thoroughly inspect them for ticks.

3. Brush & Check Daily

Get in the habit of grooming your dog regularly and checking for ticks. Use a fine-toothed comb to remove any ticks that may be clinging to your dog’s fur. Part the hair to ensure that no ticks have embedded themselves in your pet’s skin. A tick will feel like a small bump under your pet’s coat. They look similar to tiny spiders, except with a white, egg-shaped body. If you notice one, treat the area with rubbing alcohol and gently pull it from your dog’s body with tweezers. Contact your veterinarian to ensure you’ve adequately addressed the issue.

4. Keep Overgrowth Out of the Yard

Without proper lawn care, you may unknowingly be exposing your dog to ticks in your yard. Be sure to maintain your landscaping regularly, keeping shrubs trimmed, and the grass cut short. Ticks are known for climbing blades of grass and then waiting for unsuspecting hosts, like your dog, to brush up against them. The cleaner you keep your landscaping, the fewer ticks you will have to deal with.

5. Schedule Regular Checkups

Taking a proactive approach is one of your best courses of action in keeping your dog healthy. Scheduling regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help keep your dog tick-free. Pay close attention to how your veterinarian handles your dog so that you can incorporate the same techniques into your daily routine.
 

If you’re concerned about ticks and need a reliable veterinarian, put your trust in Makai Pet Hospital in Kailua, HI. For over 30 years, this full-service animal clinic has prided themselves on using industry-leading technology and investing in ongoing education to best serve your beloved pets. From pet vaccinations to spaying and neutering, to animal dentistry, they make your pet’s health their number one concern. To book an appointment, call them today at (808) 262-9621 or visit them online.