Ticks in autumn: Why you should keep checking your dog
Summer is over, and so is tick season? Not necessarily. Ticks can still be relevant for dogs in autumn. Find out why a quick tick check after a walk is still worthwhile and which areas deserve particular attention.
Are ticks still active in autumn?
Ticks do not automatically disappear when summer ends.
They can remain active on mild autumn days. That is why it is worth giving your dog a quick check after walks at this time of year.
A tick check should remain part of your routine, especially after outings through long grass, bushes, woodland edges or other areas with dense vegetation.
Where should you check your dog?
Ticks can attach themselves to different parts of the body.
After a walk, pay particular attention to areas that are easily overlooked.
- 🐾 Paws and spaces between the toes
- 👂 Ears and the area around them
- 👀 Head and neck
- ♡ Chest and belly
- 🐕 Legs and armpits
- 🔎 The rest of the coat
Slowly run your hands through the coat and feel for small bumps.
Found a tick: What now?
If you find a tick, it should be removed completely and correctly whenever possible.
Use a suitable tick removal tool and keep an eye on the affected area of skin afterwards.
If you are unsure about removal or parts of the tick remain, ask a vet for advice.
What should you watch for afterwards?
Keep an eye on the skin where the tick was removed.
Take changes in your dog’s behaviour or general condition seriously as well.
If you notice unusual skin changes, tiredness, fever, loss of appetite or other symptoms, your dog should be examined by a vet.
One minute after the walk
A tick check does not need to be complicated.
Make it a regular part of your autumn walks:
- 🐾 Look at the paws and legs
- ♡ Check the belly, chest and armpits
- 👀 Check the head and ears
- 🔎 Briefly run your hands through the coat
A small check can quickly become a simple everyday routine.
Harvest mites in dogs and cats are another seasonal topic worth keeping in mind during your checks.
Our 60 second autumn check for dogs
Ticks are not the only thing that deserves attention in autumn.
With the free Aniveri 60 second autumn check, you can quickly inspect four areas after a walk:
- Paws
- Legs and belly
- Coat
- Muzzle
The check is deliberately simple and can be saved or printed.