It’s a common occurrence for dogs to encounter ticks, especially those who are active outdoors. These little parasites can cause a range of health issues, such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and even anemia.
As such, it becomes crucial to regularly check your pet for ticks and know the right way to wash a dog with ticks. Our team at PetPal has created this guide to go through the process, step by step.
Before we start, it’s essential to note that washing alone won’t necessarily kill or remove all ticks. Ticks are incredibly resilient creatures that can withstand water and soap. However, a thorough wash can help to dislodge some ticks, making it easier to spot and remove them.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need a gentle dog shampoo, a tick-killing product, a comb, tweezers, a tick removal tool, a tick disposal container (sealable, with rubbing alcohol), gloves, lukewarm water, and a towel. Shop for what you need at PetPal’s online pet store!
2. Prepare Your Dog for the Bath
Before you start washing, it’s crucial to put on gloves to protect yourself from potential tick-borne diseases. Once you’re protected, prepare your dog for the wash by calming them down and reassuring them.
3. Wet Your Dog
Next, thoroughly wet your dog using lukewarm water. Ensure that the water reaches the skin, especially in areas where ticks love to hide, like the neck, ears, armpits, and groin.
4. Apply Tick Shampoo
Apply the tick shampoo or tick-killing product as per the instructions on the package. Make sure to cover the entire body, paying special attention to the areas mentioned above. Avoid your dog’s eyes and mouth while doing so.
5. Wait and Rinse
Let the shampoo sit on your dog’s coat for the recommended time (usually about 10 minutes) to allow the tick-killing ingredients to work. After the waiting period, rinse your dog thoroughly with lukewarm water. Be sure to remove all the shampoo, as any residue can cause skin irritation.
6. Comb Through
After rinsing, use a fine comb to run through your dog’s fur. This will help remove any dislodged ticks and also give you a chance to check for any ticks that might still be attached.
7. Check for Leftover Ticks
Now, it’s time for a thorough tick check. Pay close attention to the ears, neck, armpits, and groin. If you find a tick, make sure you have the proper tools and know the correct technique before you attempt to pull it out.
Squeezing the tick’s body can push harmful bacteria into your dog’s bloodstream, and improper removal can leave mouthparts embedded into the skin. You can use a tick removal tool or tweezers to gently pull it out.
Consult your veterinarian or a professional pet groomer for safe and complete tick removal.
8. Dispose of Ticks
Once removed, kill the tick by placing it in a container of rubbing alcohol. Do not crush the tick with your fingers, as it can spread disease.
9. Dry Your Dog
Finally, wrap your dog in a clean, absorbent towel and gently pat them dry. Remember, ticks can thrive in moist environments, so ensuring your dog is dry can help prevent re-infestation.
10. Reward Your Dog
After the wash, reward your pet with a treat and some cuddles. This will help them associate bath time with positive experiences, making future baths easier.
It’s important to note that washing should be complemented with other tick control measures. Regularly check your dog for ticks, consider using tick prevention products, and be mindful of any potential signs of illness after a tick encounter.
The Takeaway
Washing a dog with ticks involves more than just a regular bath. It requires careful attention and a systematic approach to ensure all ticks are removed. With the right knowledge and tools, you can keep your furry friend tick-free and healthy.
Remember, if you’re uncomfortable removing ticks yourself or if your dog shows signs of tick-borne diseases (such as fever, loss of appetite, or lethargy), consult a vet or schedule a home vet visit immediately.
They can safely remove the pests and provide the necessary treatment. PetPal’s team of expert veterinarians can support you and your pup to ensure happy and tick-free exploration. Download the PetPal app from the Play Store or App Store now!
