Ticks are more than just a nuisance — they can carry serious diseases and cause irritation, infection, and even long-term health issues if left untreated. These tiny, spider-like parasites are commonly found in tall grass, woodlands, and parks — including many of the beautiful walking routes around Gateshead.
If you discover a tick on your dog, it’s important to act quickly, calmly, and correctly. Here’s exactly what to do.
🐶 How to Know If Your Dog Has a Tick
Ticks are small, round-bodied parasites that attach themselves to your dog’s skin to feed on blood. You may spot them:
Around the ears, neck, face, or paws Embedded in the skin like a small lump Grey or brown in colour as they swell with blood Causing scratching or local swelling
Dogs often pick up ticks after walking through grassy, wooded, or rural areas — particularly from spring to autumn.
🩺 Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Find a Tick
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Squeeze It
Avoid pulling or pinching with your fingers or regular tweezers — this can cause the tick to burst or leave its head embedded, increasing infection risk.
2. Use a Tick Removal Tool
The safest method is to use a proper tick removal hook or tick twister:
Slide the tool under the tick, close to your dog’s skin Gently twist anti-clockwise until the tick detaches Do not yank or squash it
3. Clean the Area
Wipe the bite site with pet-safe antiseptic or mild saline solution
4. Dispose of the Tick Safely
Put the tick in a sealed bag or jar and throw it in the bin. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
5. Monitor for Signs of Illness
Watch for:
Lethargy or loss of appetite Swelling or pus at the bite site Stiffness, fever, or limping
If any appear within 1–3 weeks, contact your vet. Lyme disease, though rare, is a risk.
🧴 How to Prevent Ticks in the First Place
Use a vet-recommended flea & tick treatment year-round Avoid overgrown grass and woodland edges during tick season Brush your dog after walks Regularly check ears, neck, legs, and paws Consider protective sprays or collars if walking near fields
🐾 Chrysidis Pet Care: Calm Walks, Safe Routes
I take dog safety seriously. During my dog walking and day care services, I stick to well-maintained, low-risk areas and always check your dog after each walk — especially during tick season.
Whether your dog has had a tick before, or you’re just keen to keep them safe, I’m here to help with calm, professional, one-on-one care in a quiet, crate-free home environment.
📣 Final Thought
Ticks are common, but they don’t need to be scary. With the right tools, calm handling, and early treatment, your dog will stay happy, healthy, and itch-free all year round.
If you need trusted, attentive care for your dog around Gateshead, Chrysidis Pet Care is here to support you — whether it’s a walk, a day stay, or a longer holiday.
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