Dog leeches

Dog leeches

Many find bloodsucking leeches extremely disgusting and although that is their prerogative they might learn a bit more about them, especially when a leech attaches itself to their dog. Leeches are extremely seldom any cause for alarm and is quite normal in some areas. The dog will most probably not even notice that it has a leech and although the owner probably can let the leech finish its meal in peace it is probably better to remove it so it does not fall of inside the house or somewhere else inappropriate. Keep on reading to learn more about leeches on dogs.

Dog Leeches – What is it?

The dog leech is exactly like any other kind of leech and it was probably just dumb luck that the leech did not attach itself to the owner instead. The leech is a very old construction of an animal and has most probably derived from the regular worm but while the worm continued to eat decaying organic matter did the leech get a taste for warm uncoagulated blood. All leeches are not bad since some are used for medical treatments, even on dogs, and most leeches are quite free from dangerous diseases and bacteria.

Dog Leeches – Getting rid of them

A leech on ones dog is not something to get upset over, actually, leave the leech on if it is possible because the leech will fall off voluntarily after it has finished its meal. Just as with ticks are dogs more or less immune to any disease the leech might be carrying, and even that it is carrying a disease is quite uncommon. If one really wants to remove the leech straight away the easiest way is to simply pull it off with one firm yank. Trying to burn it or apply salt or alcohol will most probably end up hurting the dog more so just avoid it. Applying a heat rub that contains menthol will have the leech running because it really hate that stuff, unfortunately it is not every day one carries a tube of heat rub around.

Dog Leeches – Complications

Although only a few leeches carry any serious diseases there can still be some complications because of it. When leaches let go, or get yanked off, they leave a wound that in itself is not very dangerous but may catch some kind of infection that can be far more serious. The best way is to cover the wound a little so that the dog will not lick it or try to scratch it. The wound will heal quickly but until it has it is safe to keep it clean, covered and safe.

Dog Leeches – The veterinarian

There is no need to see a veterinarian for a simple leech, just get rid of it and keep the wound clean and your dog will be just fine. But remember, if the wound does not seem to heal properly or have signs of being infected it will need to be treated and then it would be a good idea to bring in a veterinarian. He, or she, will have all the right medications needed for the correct kind of treatment.