You get back from a lovely walk, your dog’s rolling around on the rug, and suddenly… there it is. A tiny, clingy little tick. Grim.
Tick season is already well underway—and with the warm weather setting in, it’s the perfect time to brush up on how to keep your dog safe from these stubborn little pests. They’re not just gross; they can also carry diseases like Lyme, so staying ahead of them is a must.
Where Ticks Lurk (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Long Grass)
Ticks aren’t just a woodland problem. While they’re common in fields and tall grass, they also thrive in:
-
Shady garden borders with ivy or dense shrubs
-
Woodland logs, tree stumps and leaf piles
-
Wildlife paths frequented by foxes, deer or hedgehogs
-
Even gardens near open countryside
If it’s cool, damp, and undisturbed, ticks will happily settle in.
How to Check for Ticks After Walks
Most dog owners know to check behind the ears or under the collar, but ticks often go unnoticed in lesser-known hiding spots:
-
Around the eyes and eyelids
-
Inside the mouth
-
Under the tail and around the bottom
-
Between toes and inside paw pads
Run your hands through your dog’s coat slowly and methodically—ticks can be as small as a sesame seed, especially just after attaching.
Tick Prevention That Works
Tick prevention is essential during the warmer months. Some flea treatments don’t cover ticks, so check labels carefully or speak with your vet. Options to consider include:
-
Prescription chewable tablets that protect against both fleas and ticks
-
Spot-on treatments with tick coverage
-
Tick collars designed for long-term, continuous protection
-
Natural sprays or repellents—these can support other methods but shouldn't be used as the only line of defence
Always ensure the dosage matches your dog’s weight and never combine treatments without veterinary advice.
How to Remove a Tick Safely
If a tick is found, remove it promptly using the correct method:
-
Use a tick remover tool or fine-point tweezers
-
Grip the tick close to the skin and twist gently until it releases
-
Avoid squeezing, pulling, or using Vaseline or heat—these methods increase the risk of infection
-
Clean the area with antiseptic afterwards and monitor for signs of irritation or infection
If unsure, contact your vet for guidance.
Signs of Tick-Borne Illness
Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease. Signs may not appear immediately and can take several weeks to develop. Keep an eye out for:
-
Sudden tiredness or low energy
-
Limping that may shift from leg to leg
-
Swollen joints
-
Fever or loss of appetite
Early treatment is key, so don’t delay if symptoms appear.
Final Thoughts
Ticks are a part of summer life—but with regular checks, proper prevention and a bit of awareness, they don’t need to ruin your walks or your dog’s wellbeing.
A quick scan after every walk takes just a minute, and it’s one of the easiest ways to protect your dog from something potentially serious. Prevention truly is better than cure.
Got your own tick tip or horror story? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear how you keep your dog safe.
Talk soon!
Fiona x