Ticks cause itching, can trigger skin inflammation and are simply annoying and dangerous for humans and dogs.
By the end of March at the latest, they are back: ticks.
As temperatures rise, they awaken from their winter hibernation and wait for their victims in forests, grass, undergrowth or low bushes. They pose a real danger to two- and four-legged creatures because they can transmit dangerous diseases.
The problem is not the tick bite itself, but the saliva that the parasite releases during the sucking process. This is where the bacterial pathogens lurk.
Particularly dangerous diseases transmitted by ticks include Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Lyme disease can cause bouts of fever, paralysis, swollen lymph nodes, and various nerve or kidney diseases and heart problems. TBE is a viral disease of the central nervous system that can be fatal.
Prevention against tick infestation
The best way to prevent these dangerous parasites is to be alert as dog moms and dads. We have to be on the lookout and check our dogs and cats regularly for ticks - ideally after every walk.
Long-haired breeds need to be combed because the unwanted creatures are usually not immediately visible in their fur.
Warning : Keep your hands off chemicals. Often, dog and cat owners don't think much about so-called spot-ons. They often contain strong neurotoxins. You should be aware that you are dripping this neurotoxin onto your pet - sounds frightening, right?
If a tick has bitten a dog or cat,
The right tool is essential when it comes to getting rid of these little beasts.
A tick tweezer, tick hook or tick loop should therefore not be missing in any household.
Under no circumstances should you grasp the tick with your bare fingers. The risk of squeezing the animal, which would lead to further release of infectious saliva, is too great. After removing the tick, it is recommended to dab colloidal silver water on the wound, as this supports the regeneration of the skin.
Important:
If the tick's head remains stuck in the skin, you should see a vet. Never use oil, glue, nail polish or other substances when trying to remove the tick. Such claims are simply false and only increase the risk of infection.