Don't Let These Tiny Hitchhikers Bug Your Best Friend! Tick Hotspots Every Dog Owner Should Know

Spring is in full swing here in College Station, and while that means beautiful weather for walks in the park and adventures with your furry companions, it also signals the start of tick season. These tiny parasites can pose a real threat to your dog's health, transmitting diseases that can range from uncomfortable to serious.

At Lucky Paws BCS, your pet's well-being is our top priority. That's why we wanted to share a quick guide on where ticks love to hide on your dog. Knowing these common spots will help you be more thorough during your post-adventure tick checks and keep your beloved pup safe and sound.

As you can see from our handy infographic, ticks aren't always in plain sight. They prefer warm, protected areas where they can easily latch on and feed. Here are some key areas to pay close attention to:

• Around Eyes and Eyelids: These delicate areas can be surprisingly attractive to ticks. Be gentle but thorough when checking.
• Under the Collar or Harness: The warmth and darkness under your dog's collar or harness create an ideal environment for ticks. Make sure to lift the collar and inspect the skin underneath.
• In and Around the Ears: Ticks love to burrow in the folds and crevices of your dog's ears. Check both the inside and outside of the ear flap.
• Armpits: The warm, moist environment of your dog's armpits makes them another favorite hiding spot for ticks.
• Groin Area: Similar to the armpits, the groin area offers warmth and protection.
• Between the Toes: Don't forget to check in between your dog's toes! These little nooks can easily harbor ticks.
• On and Under the Tail: Run your fingers along the base and underside of your dog's tail to feel for any bumps.

What to Do After a Walk (Especially in Wooded or Grassy Areas):

1. Visual Check: After every walk, take a few minutes to visually inspect your dog, paying close attention to the areas mentioned above.
2. Hands-On Check: Run your hands all over your dog's body, feeling for any small bumps or unusual lumps. Ticks can be as small as a pinhead in their early stages.
3. Use a Tick Removal Tool: If you find a tick, use a proper tick removal tool to carefully detach it. Avoid squeezing the tick's body.
4. Clean the Area: After removing the tick, clean the bite area with antiseptic.
5. Monitor Your Dog: Keep an eye on the bite area for any signs of redness or irritation. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Prevention is Key!

While thorough tick checks are crucial, the best way to protect your dog is through preventative measures. Talk to your veterinarian about the best tick prevention products for your dog, which may include:

• Monthly Chewable Tablets: These are often very effective and easy to administer.
• Topical Treatments: Applied to the skin, these treatments can repel and kill ticks.
• Tick Collars: Newer tick collars offer longer-lasting protection.

Living in College Station, Texas, we know our dogs love to explore the outdoors. By being vigilant and knowing where ticks like to hide, you can help keep your furry family members safe and healthy all year round.

If you're ever unsure about tick removal or have any concerns about your pet's health, don't hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. And if you need a helping hand with dog walking or pet sitting while you're busy, the team at Lucky Paws BCS is always here to provide loving and attentive care!