What do I do now that I found an American dog tick on my Pug?

Question

Just now I found (and removed) a American Dog Tick (identified thourgh photos) from my Pug. My folk's place has not so short grass. And my apartment is located near a river. So which location he got it, I don't know.

Anyhow, I didn't know what it was until I removed it. I removed it very easily with my own fingers. The tick was not engorged and di have 8 legs. I did a quick check and my dog (or my ferret) does nto seem to have anymore. I gace both a bath in tick killing shampoo.

Neither pet is sick. Neither is lathargic or without appetite. I am going to check them daily for a while and give them baths whenever needed. Beyond this, and buying then using a tick remover comb tomorrow, is there anything else I can do?

So, according to the answers here (and online) my pets should be ok. He is already on a antiobiotic for a skin infection (unrelated). I believe continuing to use the antiobiotic would pretty much take care of anything that "could be wrong". Are there any symptoms I should be on the lookout for just in case?

Answer 1

There isn't much you can do. You sort of have freaked out a little about it lol. Which is great because that means you really care about your animals. I have Huskies and a ferret and 2 squirrels so I know what it's like to worry about them. I would say take them to the vet and have them do a quick check over. The doctor may have certain pills, shampoos, injections or even sprays that help against this. Some ticks carry more than the regular diseases and if you want to be sure then you could go check it out at the vet. What I would do is maybe check your house or put in some foggers to kill any if there are any in your house. It can be very dangerous if you get them and believe me they are trick little critters and can crawl onto you. A long time ago, a person I know was taking a shower and found a tick on herself. You don't want to know where. Scared her enough to clean her house completely and put her dogs and her yard on some serious treatment. Good Luck.

Answer 2

Since apparently the tick didn't embed itself, I'd say you caught it just in time. The comb and a daily search is good, and you might want to consider Frontline.

I had no idea that there was enough ticks that one could be called American, but it sounds like you are taking good care of your animals.

Answer 3

Phreak, at most good pet stores they have solutions to apply to your pet to prevent all manner of pests, from ticks to mosquitoes. Pet Smart is one such store. There are many more to choose from. Just check your local yellow pages. Hope this helps. J.

Answer 4

i would recommend using Frontline, it kills and repels ticks and fleas