What You Need To Know About Ticks

Ticks are small arachnid parasites that can cause your pet extreme discomfort. Not only are ticks an itchy irritant for your pet, they are also a vector for serious diseases and medical complications. Some common illnesses your pet can suffer from tick bites include:

• Lyme Disease 
• Blood loss
• Anemia 
• Tick paralysis
• Skin infection 

Ticks parasitize animals for their blood, which they need to survive and grow to maturity. Ticks are most active in the warm months of late spring and summer and are known to inhabit wooded grassy areas. When a tick comes in contact with your pet, it will commonly migrate to the feet, hind legs, or head region for their meals. 

Here are some several tells that your pet has ticks :

• Ticks are often small and difficult to see when they first latch onto your pet, but they will grow to clearly visible size as they feed on your pet. Be on the lookout for unusual lumps on your pet’s body, especially on the locations mentioned above.
• You may notice your pet scratching and biting excessively where a tick may be attached.
• You may notice swollen or inflamed skin on your pet where a tick has embedded itself.
• If your pet has a serious infestation, you may notice uncharacteristic lethargy or wobbly incoordination due to anemia.

Your pet may not show any visible signs of discomfort, so routine checks are essential, especially when returning from the outdoors. To check your furry friend, carefully run a hand over their body, and be on the lookout for any signs of lumps or any skin irritation: especially the feet and head areas! 

Disease complications from ticks can result in a medical emergency for your pet if neglected. If your pet has been enduring a tick infestation, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian for an evaluation to catch any signs of potential illness.

Destination Pet of Woodstock is Here to Help 

If your pet has been suffering from a tick infestation, take them over to Destination Pet of Woodstock for a checkup! Located in Woodstock, Georgia, we provide a full-service animal hospital for both cats and dogs. Our professional and compassionate team at Destination Pet will ensure your pet is given only the best medical and surgical care. All patients in the Woodstock area are welcome to contact us today to schedule an appointment.