Vet Shares The 5 Most Overlooked Spots To Find Ticks On Your Dog
Andrea Powell
Ticks are already appearing in many states due to a mild end to winter. Some states are even forecasting a "severe" tick season. This is a concern for both people and pets.
As temperatures continue to rise, so do the number of ticks. Ticks are dangerous because they can transmit diseases, like Lyme disease, to people and their furry companions. The pesky parasites are difficult to find as they often head to protected areas on the body.
People are urged to thoroughly check their bodies and their pets for ticks after hiking, gardening, or any other outdoor activity. Also, they should use some form of preventative on themselves and their pets.
Protect Your Dog
New Jersey veterinarian, Adam Christman, created a video to share five of the most overlooked spots that ticks love to hide on dogs. The video posted on TikTok features his pack of dogs, who were all good sports.
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1. Under the lip and lip folds
2. Base of the ear and inside the ear
3. Armpits & groin area
4. Under the tail
5. Between their toes or webbing of paws
Check out the video below!
@dr.adamchristman52 Tick Check! 5 of the Most Overlooked Areas to Check For Ticks on Your Dog! #ticks #doghealth #vettok #dachshund #dogsoftiktok #dogparents #dogowners #dogs #dogsofttiktok #tickspoon ♬ NoCopyright Twitch Background Music - Clvssified
If you happen to find a tick, use a tick remover tool to safely detach the entire tick.
Be sure to follow Dr. Adam Christman on TikTok for more information videos to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Protect Yourself
Lyme disease is also a huge concern for people with an estimated 476,000 Americans diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year. State of New York Department of Health provides steps you can take to reduce the chance of a tick bite.
Photo: Pixabay/Erik Karits - Wear light-colored clothing with a tight weave to spot ticks easily.
- Wear enclosed shoes, pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Tuck pant legs into socks or boots & shirt into pants.
- Check clothes and any exposed skin frequently for ticks while outdoors.
- Consider using insect repellent.
- Stay on cleared, well-traveled trails. Walk in the center of trails. Avoid dense woods and bushy areas.
- Avoid sitting directly on the ground or on stone walls.
- Keep long hair tied back, especially when gardening.
- Bathe or shower as soon as possible after going indoors (preferably within two hours) to wash off and more easily find ticks that may be on you.
Learn more about how to protect your dog here.
