Are you checking your pup regularly for ticks and other bugs? Even with keeping up regular bug treatments, it’s important to not only still give your dog a thorough search but also to know what you could be dealing with living in New England.
Start with the head and ears. You’ll know from petting your dog normally if there are any new bumps, but your dog may also exhibit more ear scratching and head shaking if you miss something on your initial search. Make sure to also check the eyelids before moving downward.
Next up is feeling under the collar and in the armpits, before we start moving towards the toes. If your dog has been licking or chewing their feet, this could be an indicator of a tick or possibly a skin condition - definitely check with your vet if you’ve been noticing this just to make sure.
Continuing on down the body, you’ll also want to check the groin and tail for any unusual bumps as well.
Knowing your dog’s body may be time-consuming, but doing this can also help diagnose other health issues earlier, keeping them healthier and happier overall!