Ticks are disease-causing organisms that may attach themselves to a dog's skin. Ticks are spider-like arachnids that are very small in size initially, but grow as they feed on blood. These eight-legged creatures are mainly found in open spaces and on tall trees. Because of the large number of species of ticks that can attack dogs, symptoms may vary; however skin infections, lameness, paralysis, fever, lethargy and arthritis are common effects of a tick bite.
-
Paralysis
-
Paralysis is one of the deadliest effects of ticks, according to Petalia.com.au . One species of tick, called the paralysis tick, causes damage to the bloodstream that is serious enough to result in paralysis. Unfortunately, this tick is similar in appearance to the brown dog tick, which is less dangerous and doesn't cause such serious side effects.
Babesiosis
-
Babesiosis is another condition caused by a tick bite. This ailment affects the bloodstream, entering into the blood within one to three days of the tick attaching to the dog. It is comparable to malaria in terms of its symptoms, which include fever, the shakes and possibly fatality. This disease cyclical in nature, which means it can be latent for long periods before manifesting in the dog.
Ehrlichiosis
-
Ticks can cause an illness called ehrlichiosis, which can be fatal. Ehrlichiosis is also a blood infection that can spread within two to three days. The symptoms of the disease--fever and shakes--are similar to those of babesiosis. The major difference is that this disease does not remain dormant and is not cyclical. A dog infected with ehrlichiosis from a tick will begin exhibiting symptoms immediately.
-