The Right Way to Check Your Dog for Ticks

As mentioned last week, the arrival of Autumn and its accompanying cool days and nights is not a deterrent for ticks and other outdoor pests. Ticks are not going into hibernation. In fact, according to a study from <http://www.jci.org/articles/view/42868> the Journal of Clinical Investigation <http://www.jci.org/articles/view/42868> in 2010 <http://www.jci.org/articles/view/42868>, some disease-carrying ticks have actually become “immune to the cold because they’ve developed a type of anti-freeze glycoprotein to survive in harsh conditions,” according to the experts at Pet Health Network.com <http://network.com/>.

Albany, Saratoga and the rest of NY’s Capital District are home to a variety of disease-carriers. Have you ever wondered whether you’re adequately checking your pooch for those pesky arachnids in particular? Here are some tips to follow from Pet Health Network.com <http://network.com/>, and Dr. Mike Paul, a veterinarian with whom they consulted, to make sure Fido is tick-free.

Important places to check your dog include:

·         Between the toes

·         Inside the ears and around the ear folds

·         Under the chin and neck area

·         Groin and armpits

Pretty much anywhere that looks like a good hiding spot probably is, writes Tori Houle, Lifestyle Contributor and Junior Editor <http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/pet-news/our-experts/tori-houle-lifestyle-contributor-and-junior-editor> for Pet Health Network.com <http://network.com/> in the article How to Check Your Dog for Ticks found at http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-checkups-preventive-care/how-check-your-dog-ticks.

“Remember to always part the hair as much as you can to get the deepest and closest look. You should be checking your pup any time she could have come into contact with parasites, especially after outdoor activities such as hiking <http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-checkups-preventive-care/hiking-your-pooch> or swimming <http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/news-blogs/a-pets-life/water-safety-dogs>,” Houle added.

Experts agree it’s a good idea to use tick preventatives all year long to keep you pooch protected.

For more information, consult your dog’s veterinarian. And remember to comsult your local Offleash K9 Training professional for advice and tips on how to address canine behavioral issues, including food aggression, excessive barking, socialization and potty training difficulties.