Treatments for Ticks on Dogs

Ticks are related to spiders, mites and scorpions. They live off of the blood of mammals and birds. Ticks transmit diseases such as "yme disease, canine ehrlichiosis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. They thrive in moist, humid environments and live in leaves, tall grass and wooded areas. They are attracted to dogs. It is important to check your dogs for ticks and to know treatments for ticks on dogs.

  1. Tick Removal

    • Remove ticks from your dog as soon as possible. If possible, use rubber gloves to protect your hands. Use a tweezer to grasp the tick and firmly pull it out of the dog's skin. Be careful not to crush the tick as this will release toxins. Wash your dog's skin with soap and water. Apply an antiseptic. The longer the tick is embedded the greater the chance for infection. They usually need to be embedded for 24 to 48 hours in order to pass the infection.

    Medications

    • There are many medications available for tick treatment. Some medications need to be prescribed by a veterinarian but others are available over the counter.

      Over-the-counter topical medications are available at dog specialty stores and from you veterinarian. These are chemical products and should be used with care. Follow directions carefully and do not touch with bare hands.

      If you dog shows signs of a tick-borne illness the veterinarian may prescribe oral medications. Your veterinarian can also perform annual tests for tick-borne illness as a part of your dog's regular exam.

    Natural Treatments

    • There are natural alternatives available for treatments for ticks on dogs. These treatments do not expose your dog, or you, to potentially dangerous chemicals.

      Apple cider vinegar added to your dog's drinking water, approximately 2 tablespoons to 3 tablespoons daily, can ward off ticks. You can also add the vinegar to your dog's bath water. The acidity in the vinegar is not appealing to fleas.

      Neem oil can be applied directly to your dog's coat to repel ticks and other insects. It also has natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties. You can also add some lavender essential oil to a spray bottle of water and spritz your dog and his bedding. This will smell great and repel ticks. Other essential oils can also be added.

      Tie a bandana around your dog's neck and add some essential oils known to repel ticks. Tick-repelling essential oils include eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, geranium and citronella. There is an added benefit of repelling other insects such as mosquitoes and fleas. Do not use essential oils on cats.

      Put some brewer's yeast in your dog's food or offer them brewer's yeast tablets as a treat. Dogs seem to love the taste of brewer's yeast and ticks seem to dislike the taste. Brewer's yeast is available in both tablet and powder form.

      Garlic is often touted as an effective dietary supplement that works to repel ticks. However, there are health concerns for dogs and any use of garlic should be discussed with your veterinarian.