Tick fever in dogs: signs and veterinary care

Tick-related illnesses in dogs can affect blood cells and organs. A dog may seem tired, stop eating, develop fever, have swollen joints, breathe faster, or show pale or yellow gums. Dark urine, bruising, nosebleeds, wobbliness, or collapse are particularly concerning. These signs are not specific to one infection, so a veterinarian may need an examination and blood tests. Do not give human painkillers unless a veterinarian specifically instructs you.

Check your dog calmly for attached ticks, including around the ears, collar, toes, and between the legs. Remove a tick with a suitable tool if you can do so safely, and wash your hands afterwards. Note when the tick was found, where your dog has travelled, and any change in appetite, movement, urine, or behaviour. Call a veterinary clinic for advice rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe. Keep the dog resting and offer water.

Seek emergency veterinary care for collapse, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, seizures, severe weakness, uncontrolled bleeding, very pale gums, or inability to stand. Arrange a prompt appointment for fever, marked tiredness, loss of appetite, limping, swollen joints, or unusual urine after tick exposure. A dog can worsen while the bite site still looks small.

Ask which tests may identify tick-related illness, whether treatment should begin before results, how to give each medicine, and which side effects need a call. Ask about tick prevention for the dog, home environment, and other pets.