| TICK
CONTROL
Ticks are external parasites
that feed on the blood of mammals. These pests can transmit
some very dangerous diseases, such as Rocky Mountain Spotted
Fever, not only to your pet, but to members of your family.
There are four dominant species of ticks found in the United
States: Deer Tick, Brown Dog Tick, Lone Star Tick and American
Dog Tick. The Southeast is the only area where all 4 species
are indigenous. Therefore, tick control is very important
to residents in North Carolina.
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Dear
Tick |
Dog
Tick |
Lone
Star Tick |
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Ticks
are usually found in dark, warm, humid areas
such as wooded areas and bushes. This is where
pets are likely to pick up a tick.
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Preventative
Measures:
For most tick borne diseases, the tick must be attached
to your pet for 24 to 48 hours for the disease microorganisms
to migrate from the tick's stomach to your pet. Luckily,
products such as Preventic
and Frontline are designed to kill and detach ticks
within 24 hours. If directions are followed properly, both
of these products are safe to pets and humans.
Removal of
a Tick from your Pet
--Only
use this procedure if the entire head of the tick can be
seen. The longer a tick is attached the further it burrows
under the skin.
1. Try
to avoid touching the tick with your fingers. Tweezers are
best, but rubber gloves or a paper towel will work as well.
2. Locate the mouth of the tick and place
the tweezers or paper towel as close to the base of the
tick's mouth as possible.
3. Squeeze the tick gently, and slowly
pull it back with your hands to detach the tick from your
pet's skin.
4. Flush, burn or place tick in sealable
bag immediately.
5. Wash the area on your pet with peroxide
or alcohol.
6. Mark your calendar on the date of tick
removal. Most tick borne diseases will manifest symptoms
in your pet in approximately 2 weeks. Watch for signs such
as lethargy, fever, vomiting, or inappetance. If you see
any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately,
and DON'T FORGET to tell them that you recently removed
a tick.
Ask
your veterinarian for the best line of defense against ticks
for your pet's health.
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