Tick problem

[adrenalinepursuit]

I was over shed hunting yesterday and my lab got into some ticks. I pulled out a couple yesterday and today found two burrowed. One of which was really burrowed in. I pulled them out with treezers and believe I got the heads out. Rubbed peroxide on the bite spots and gave another real thorough look over. Anything else I should do or suggestions? Thanks

[RadSav]

Sounds like you've done about all that you can.  I use iodine instead of peroxide due to suggestion from the vet.  But I'm not sure how much that matters.  I also make note of where I removed them.  In a week check that location again.  If it has festered and has a large scab you probably missed the head.  You peal the scab off and 9 out of ten times the head comes with it.  The vet warned if the area is red and hair starts to fall out bring them in.  Though I have never needed to do that...yet.  Peeled lots of scabs though.  Our ticks down here are a PITA to get out in one piece!

If you know you are going into the woods soon spend the cash and get some tick drops and apply at least four days ahead of time.  On our dogs K9 Advantix seem to work better than the other two popular brands.  One of our dogs has a terrible reaction to Advantage as have a few others I know so we try and talk folks out of trying that stuff!  And I've been told the stuff from the vets office is better than the stuff you can get from Petco.  Not sure that is true, but I buy from the vet just to be sure.  Stuff works great!

Don't forget to pick up your Heart Guard chews at the same time.  http://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm.html

[adrenalinepursuit]

Wow great info! Thanks a bunch. Very helpful!

[yorketransport]

I just switched my dog over to Nexgard after the vet recommended it. First trip out she picked up 2 ticks. By the time I found them on her at the house they were already dead. Just brushed them out and she was good to go.

They need to bite the dog before it works, but the ticks die withing 10-15 minutes. It wasn't significantly more expensive than the advantage that I was using for just fleas.

Andrew

[Birdguy]

This is a great reminder post for all dog owners. A good flea and TICK program should be a key part of any active dogs regular health plan. Prevention is so cheap and it really benefits the entire family. If you are planning on taking your dog into the field anywhere have it on a program.

Good for you for checking your dog out and finding the ticks but be sure to check it again as mentioned to ensure you got the entire tick fully removed. Healthy pets make for much  happier owners  .