Vet Warns Pet Owners: “Ear Scratching Could Be a Warning Sign”
If your dog has been acting a little off lately, it might be worth paying closer attention than you think. Veterinarian Jimmy Bratley has spoken out about a set of subtle behavioral changes in dogs that many owners overlook, warning that these signs could actually point to a tick problem. Ticks are active throughout the entire year, though they tend to peak between April and July and can remain a concern well into the fall. They thrive in grassy and wooded environments, which means any outdoor trip could put your pet at risk.
According to Bratley, one of the most commonly missed early indicators is persistent scratching or biting at specific spots on the body. A tick bite can cause enough irritation to make a dog gnaw or scratch repeatedly at the same area, and owners often chalk this up to dry skin or allergies. Another red flag is sudden restlessness or anxious behavior, particularly if your dog is normally calm and easygoing. A dog that cannot seem to settle down or get comfortable may be reacting to the discomfort of a tick attachment.
Bratley also highlighted sensitivity to touch as a clue worth taking seriously. If a dog that usually loves being pet or groomed starts flinching or pulling away, that shift in reaction can signal that something is bothering them beneath the surface. He also pointed out that ticks tend to gravitate toward warm and dark areas of the body, with ears being a prime target. This is why excessive head shaking or pawing at the ears can serve as a meaningful warning sign that many pet owners might write off as a minor annoyance. Persistent whining without an obvious cause rounds out the list of behaviors Bratley urges owners not to ignore.
When it comes to protecting your pet before a tick even has a chance to latch on, Bratley recommends preventive options like spot-on treatments, sprays, or tick-repellent collars. These products are designed to kill ticks when they attempt to feed on your pet, making them a practical first line of defense. Doing a thorough check of your dog after any outdoor activity is also a smart habit to build, no matter the time of year.
If you do find a tick on your dog, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) advises against pulling it straight out. Doing so risks leaving parts of the tick’s mouthpiece embedded in the skin, which can cause further complications. Instead, the recommended approach is to use a specially designed tick removal tool, which you can pick up at most pet stores or from your vet, and to carefully twist the tick out rather than yank it.
The RSPCA also cautions against burning ticks or applying lotions in an attempt to suffocate them, as these methods do nothing to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Ticks are capable of spreading Lyme disease, a serious bacterial infection that can affect dogs, cats, and even humans, so prompt and correct removal really does matter.
If you are ever unsure about removing a tick yourself, the safest move is always to bring your pet to a vet rather than risk making things worse at home. Paying attention to small changes in your dog’s behavior is one of the most valuable things you can do as a pet owner, and catching a tick early can make a real difference in your pet’s health and comfort. Share your own experiences with ticks or tips for keeping your pets protected in the comments.
