Ticks are so tiny and they’re easy to forget about once they’re removed – can something as small as a tick really make a dog sick?
The short answer is yes.
Tick fever is a serious disease spread by the bites of infected ticks. This illness can cause significant health issues in dogs, and awareness is crucial for owners who want to keep their furry friends safe.
Though ticks are usually less likely to be found in urban environments, Singapore’s warm and humid climate can, unfortunately, be conducive to tick infestations. Owners who travel overseas with their dogs should also take proper precautions to avoid bringing ticks or tick fever back home.
What is Tick Fever in Dogs?
Understanding what is tick fever in dogs and how it gets transmitted is the first step in protecting your pet.
Tick fever in dogs isn’t a single disease; it generally refers to a group of diseases caused by different types of bacteria transmitted through the bites of infected Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks. The most common types are ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis caused by Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and Babesia pathogens, respectively.
Each type of tick fever has its specific characteristics, but they all share a common mode of transmission: infected tick bites on dogs. When an infected tick bites a dog, these bacteria enter the bloodstream and begin to multiply, leading to various symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Tick Fever Symptoms in Dogs
Recognising the early signs of tick fever symptoms in dogs is vital for early intervention. Common early symptoms include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Signs of depression and weakness
As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including:
- Joint pain
- Neurological issues such as seizures or incoordination
- Severe weight loss
If you’re wondering how long does tick fever last in dogs, unfortunately there’s no straightforward answer. Tick fever symptoms in dogs can vary widely and may take weeks or even months to appear after the initial tick bite. Once a dog is infected, it can also manifest as a chronic illness across months or years, requiring pet care for chronic conditions.
Therefore, regular monitoring and prompt veterinary attention are essential if your dog shows any unusual behaviour or health changes.
Diagnosing and Treating Tick Fever
If tick fever is suspected, your veterinarian will conduct blood tests to detect the presence of the bacteria causing the illness. Early diagnosis can be the key to preventing the disease from progressing to a more severe stage, so it’s important to act fast.
The primary treatment for tick fever involves antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include doxycycline or tetracycline. In addition to antibiotics, supportive care such as fluids, pain management, and nutritional support can help manage the symptoms and improve recovery.
What to Do for Infected Tick Bites on Your Dog
If you find a tick on your dog, it is important to remove it safely and promptly.
To safely remove a tick:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure.
- Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin.
- After removal, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
Once the tick has been removed, be sure to monitor your dog for any tick fever symptoms and seek veterinary attention as soon as possible if you suspect something could be wrong.
What to Feed a Dog with Tick Fever
When considering what to feed a dog with tick fever, it is important to follow your veterinarian’s guidance. Appetite loss is common in dogs suffering from tick fever, so offering soft, easily digestible foods can help maintain their strength and hydration. Nutrient-rich broths, boiled chicken, and rice are often recommended.
Hydration is equally important, and encouraging your dog to drink plenty of water can help manage the fever and support overall recovery.
What to Feed a Dog with Tick Fever
Preventing tick bites is the most effective way to protect your dog from tick fever. Though there’s currently no tick fever vaccination for dogs in Singapore, regular use of preventative pet care, such as topical treatments, collars, and oral medications can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Even with preventatives, regular tick checks are important. After walks or outdoor play, thoroughly check your dog’s coat for ticks, paying close attention to areas around the ears, neck, and under the legs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for tips on choosing the best tick prevention method for your dog!
By understanding what causes tick fever in dogs, recognising the symptoms, and knowing how to treat and cure infected tick bites on dogs, you ensure your dog remains healthy and happy. If you suspect your dog is showing symptoms of tick fever or you want to get a tick bite checked out, our emergency vet services in Singapore are here to help.
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