Tick prevention is crucial for maintaining your dog’s health, as ticks are carriers of various harmful diseases. These parasites can transmit illnesses such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. While we’re usually aware of checking common spots like the neck and ears, ticks have a way of hiding in less obvious places. In this post, we’ll explore five hidden areas where ticks love to lurk on dogs, so you can make sure your furry friend stays safe and healthy.
Between the Toes
Ticks are often overlooked in the paws, but the spaces between your dog’s toes are perfect hiding spots. These areas are often warm, moist, and less disturbed, making them ideal for ticks to latch onto. After walks in grassy or wooded areas, be sure to check the webbing between your dog’s toes. Gently separate the toes and look carefully for any signs of ticks.
Under the Tail
Ticks can be sneaky and find their way to your dog’s underbelly or under the tail, where fur is denser. This area is hard to inspect thoroughly unless you’re paying attention, as many dogs dislike having their tail area handled. However, it’s crucial to check there, as ticks can easily attach near the anus or base of the tail, hidden by thick fur.
Around the Eyes and Eyelids
The sensitive areas around your dog’s eyes may be an unexpected spot for ticks. They often seek out dark, moist, and sheltered places, and your dog’s eye area is a prime target. Carefully inspect the eyelids and the surrounding areas, as ticks may try to hide there, especially on long-haired breeds where fur can easily conceal them.
On the Belly
The belly is another commonly overlooked area that ticks love. Your dog’s belly is often covered in fur but may not be as well-groomed as the rest of the body. When checking, lift up your dog’s belly fur and carefully run your fingers through it, feeling for any bumps or lumps that might be ticks. Pay attention to the area where the abdomen meets the hind legs, as ticks are drawn to that spot.
Around the Neck, Beneath the Collar
Many dog owners are vigilant about checking their dog’s head and neck areas, but they often miss the space under the collar. The collar may trap ticks against the skin, making it easy for them to go unnoticed. Remove your dog’s collar and check the fur and skin beneath it. Ticks can hide around this area where they have easy access to blood flow.
How to Prevent Tick Infestations
Prevention is key when it comes to ticks. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe:
- Use tick preventatives: Talk to your vet about flea and tick medications that work best for your dog.
- Check your dog regularly: Make tick checks part of your routine, especially after walks in wooded areas.
- Keep your yard clean: Ticks thrive in tall grass and wooded areas, so keep your yard trimmed and free of underbrush.
- Bath your dog frequently: Regular baths with a gentle dog shampoo can help remove ticks before they attach.