TL;DR: Finding a tick in your dog's ear is generally a low-urgency situation, but the tick should be removed promptly to prevent disease transmission. Take a photo before removal to help your veterinarian identify the species and ensure the object isn't a skin growth.
What is a tick in a dog's ear and what does it look like?
Ticks are parasitic arachnids that latch onto your dog's skin to feed on their blood. The inner ear is a common site for attachment because it is dark, warm, and the skin is relatively thin, making it easy for the tick to feed. To the touch, it may feel like a small, smooth bump, and depending on the species and how long it has been feeding, it can range in color from light brown to a bluish-grey.
Is finding a tick in my dog's ear an emergency?
The urgency level for a tick in the ear is generally Low, as disease transmission typically requires 24 to 48 hours of attachment. However, you should seek veterinary care if you notice the following:
- Signs of 'Tick Paralysis,' such as sudden weakness in the hind legs.
- Signs of severe secondary infection, such as heavy discharge.
- An extreme foul odor coming from the ear.
Why should I take a photo of the tick for veterinary triage?
Taking a clear, close-up photo of the tick before removal is highly beneficial for your veterinarian for several reasons:
- A photo allows a professional to identify the specific species of tick, which helps determine the risk of specific regional diseases.
- It helps the vet confirm that the object is indeed a tick and not a skin growth, such as a histiocytoma or a skin tag, which should not be pulled on.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cases of tick infestation in the ear, treatment involves mechanical removal of all ticks with forceps, as plucking the tick yields the best result in dogs. The entire integument should be diligently searched, especially around the head and neck. Concurrent secondary bacterial or yeast otitis externa should also be addressed.
Chapter: Dermatology, Parasitology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 520)