Ticks may be tiny, but the risks they bring are anything but small. From Lyme disease to skin infections, these parasites can cause serious health issues for your beloved pet. At Apollo Animal Hospital in Surrey, BC, we care deeply about the health and happiness of your furry family members—which is why we’re sharing essential dog tick prevention tips every pet owner should know.

Knowing where ticks hide is the first step toward keeping your dog safe. Even if your pet is on a preventative treatment, a quick inspection after outdoor adventures can help catch unwanted hitchhikers early.

Here are the most common places ticks hide—don’t skip these during your post-walk routine!

1. Under the Collar or Harness

Ticks love dark, moist environments, and underneath your dog’s collar or harness is prime real estate. This area is often overlooked and rarely cleaned, making it an easy target.

Remove your pet’s collar regularly and give the area a thorough check. Clean the collar itself and look for any suspicious bumps.

2. Under the Tail

The base of the tail is one of the warmest, most protected areas on your dog’s body—perfect for ticks to settle in undisturbed.

Gently lift your dog’s tail and inspect the area carefully, especially after walks in grassy or wooded areas.

3. In the Groin and Genital Area

As uncomfortable as it sounds, the groin area is a favorite tick zone. It’s warm, secluded, and hard for dogs to reach or scratch.

When doing a tick check, be thorough and inspect the area around the inner thighs and genitals. If you’re unsure, feel free to visit Apollo Animal Hospital for a professional checkup.

4. Between the Toes and Paw Pads

Ticks often latch on as your dog walks through grass or leaves, making their way to the spaces between toes or under paw pads.

Spread your dog’s toes apart and examine between each one. Look for small dark bumps or irritated skin.

5. Under the Legs (Armpits and Elbows)

Moist, less-exposed areas like armpits and hind leg joints are frequent tick hotspots. Ticks often feed here undetected due to the thin fur and tucked-away location.

Lift your dog’s front legs gently and inspect the folds under the armpits and around the elbows.

6. Around the Eyelids

Ticks can sometimes be mistaken for skin tags, especially around the eyes, where tiny brown or reddish bumps may be hiding.

If you notice any odd bump near the eyelids, check for legs or swelling. When in doubt, consult your vet to avoid accidentally removing a benign skin growth.

Why Tick Checks Matter – Even with Preventatives

Using a monthly flea and tick preventative is essential, but it’s not a 100% guarantee. Regular tick inspections act as a second line of defense against diseases like Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, and more.

🐾 Quick Tick Check = Long-Term Protection.
It only takes a few minutes, but could save your dog from discomfort—or worse.

Final Thought: Stay One Step Ahead of Ticks

Ticks may be sneaky, but you can outsmart them. With routine checks and proper tick prevention, your dog can enjoy the great outdoors without the risk. Make these quick inspections a habit—and if you ever need support, Apollo Animal Hospital is just a call away.

💚 A little vigilance goes a long way in protecting your pup’s health.