Ticked Off
Ticks are like the ultimate hide-and-seek champions and, sadly, your dog is their playground. Sure, you might check the fur, but they’re experts at finding sneaky spots you’d never guess. But that doesn't mean you should just give up! At the end of the day, it's on us to help out our furry friends and keep them out of harm's way. So let’s take a closer (way closer) look at where ticks love to hide and what you can do about it.
1. Inside the Ears
Those warm, dark folds and the inner ear canal make a really good home for ticks. So, after any outdoor adventure, take a moment to gently lift the ear flap and peek inside. This way, you can catch ticks early and save your pup from infections.
2. Between the Toes
Ticks have a knack for finding tight, hidden spots, and your dog’s toes are one of their favorite hiding places. The dense fur and snug spaces between the toes create the perfect environment for these pesky parasites to latch on, often without you noticing.
3. Under the Collar
Collars keep your dog stylish, and they also become a tick magnet. These sneaky pests love to slip underneath, enjoying the snug. Hence, during inspections, take off the collar and run your fingers along your dog’s neck for safety.
4. Under the Tail
The underside of your dog’s tail is a warm and hidden spot that ticks find irresistible. Plus, the risk is even bigger if they have long fur. It’s one of those spots that’s easy to miss but perfect for ticks to settle in. A quick check here can spare your pup from those pests.
5. Near the Eyelids
Ticks are parasitic arachnids known for their preference for warm, moist areas of the body, making the soft and thin skin around the eyelids an attractive spot for them. Though it may not be the first place one would think to check, ticks can latch onto this sensitive area.
6. On the Belly
Your dog’s belly, often exposed and easy to access, is an appealing spot for ticks. With less fur and easy reach, this area becomes a prime target for pests, especially after adventures in grassy or wooded areas. Keep an eye out, as ticks can settle there quickly.
7. Around the Groin Area
When it comes to choosing a home, ticks aren’t picky—the groin area is another favorite of theirs. Be thorough in this area after a hike or an outdoor adventure. The warmth and accessibility make it an ideal location for ticks to settle in undisturbed.
8. Under the Chin
It’s easy to forget about the chin area. Ticks, on the other hand, know exactly where to target. The soft skin under the chin is an inviting place for ticks to bite and embed themselves. That’s why, when checking your dog’s face, don’t forget the area under the chin.
9. Along the Back and Spine
Ticks can sometimes be found along your dog’s spine, especially around the shoulder blades or lower back. This area can be tricky to check thoroughly due to the way fur grows, so be sure to part the coat and feel for any small bumps or lumps.
10. Around the Legs and Thighs
The area between your dog’s legs and thighs is a common spot for ticks to hide. With its dense fur and constant exposure during walks, this warm, tucked-away region gives ticks the perfect chance to latch on and go undetected.
