More Ask the Veterinarian Answers
Question Library
Ask a question about Ask the Veterinarian
Volunteer
Experts of the Month
Expert Login
Awards
About Us
Tell friends
Link to Us
Disclaimer
|
| |
|
|
| |
| | | |
About Jana Connell RVT, CVT
Expertise
I can answer most questions about small animal and wildlife care as well as small animal nutrition. I can also answer questions about all phases of dental care for small animals. I cannot diagnose diseases nor will I try to. That is only for a licensed Veterinarian to do. I DO NOT do birds (unless it is wildlife or songbirds) or HAMSTERS/GERBILS/CHINS/GUINEA PIGS so please submit these questions to the appropriate sections. I also do not know much about reptiles, so post those to the reptile experts also. Thanks!
Experience
I have over 35 years experience in the field of veterinary medicine. I specialized in small animals and did wildlife rehab for over 25 years, mostly raptors, squirrels and opossums. I am a nutritional consultant with 6 certificates from Hills Pet Foods, CNM and Purina.
Organizations
Audubon,World Wildlife Federation, American Society of Veterinary Dental Technicians.
Education/Credentials
Licensed with California and Oregon, RVT and CVT.
Certified Veterinary Dental Technician
| | |
| |
You are here: Experts > Animals/Pets > Pet Birds > Ask the Veterinarian > Tick bite
Expert: Jana Connell RVT, CVT - 10/12/2008
Question
We found a large tick on the tip of our dog's ear and removed it and ensured the head came out as well. Her ear is slightly swollen and hot. It is quite sore. She also seemed to be upset and has the shivers. We cleaned the area with peroxide and put a veterinarian antibiotic/antifungial cream on the area. What are signs of infection or should she see a vet?
Answer
Well tick bites are really painful once you pull the tick out. They have a numbing agent in their saliva to keep the dog from feeling them while they are feeding but once you pull it out it hurts like crazy. I know, I have had them myself!
She will be ok in a few days. You can give her an aspirin if she is really miserable as long as she isn't on other medications for her heart, etc.
Even if you don't pull out the head it just shrivels up and falls off. That is an old myth about the head causing problems.
I wouldn't use an anti fungal cream on it or any cream at all. Just let it be and it will go down and should be fine.
The only infection she might get would be if she scratches it but if you have Lyme's disease in your geographical area you might want to get her tested for it next week.
That would be the main concern.
Add to this Answer
Ask a Question
|
|
