Leeches on your pet dog may seem like an alarming problem, but with the right approach and products, you can ward off these parasites. The wet conditions of last summer were favourable for leeches to thrive and wreak havoc with our pets.  Learn more about how to diagnose leeches, prevent future infestations, and remove them when they do appear. 

Keep Your Dog Well Groomed

Brush your dog regularly (at least once a day), keep their coat trimmed with dog clippers and maintain regular baths. Finally, pay attention to their fur and paws after walking in areas with standing water as these insects may hide there.

Inspect Your Dog’s Body Regularly 

At least twice daily in coastal areas of Eastern Australia and weekly for other areas, check your dog’s coat and skin for any signs of leeches. Leeches are small, slimy parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts - which can include your pet dog. To stay ahead of any leech infestations, look closely at every inch of their fur. If you find any, don’t panic – most types found in dogs won’t cause illness and can be removed with relative ease.

How to Protect your Dog from Leeches

If you want to protect your dog from leeches, there is no official product registered for prevention. However, sprays such as  Troy Chloromide contain ingredients known to have leech repellent properties. Additionally, you can protect your pup by covering them by using dog socks, a raised hammock bed or sleeping your dog indoors. To remove an attached bleeding leech on your dog try using an ice cube, hydrogen peroxide, or salt water solution.

If possible, avoid Leech-Infested areas! One of the simplest ways to prevent leeches from attaching to your dog is to avoid areas that are known to be infested with leeches. These areas are usually damp, humid, and have a lot of vegetation.

How to Remove a Leech Safely from your Dog

If you find a leech on your dog, you have two options: either leave it alone, and it should detach by itself in 20-30 minutes, or remove the leech yourself. To do so safely, try using a flat object such as a credit card or fingernail to carefully scrape between the leech and your pet's skin. You can also try pulling the leech off gently or applying some salt to encourage it to detach. Make sure not to squeeze the leech when removing as this may cause bacteria to enter the wound. Afterwards, clean with warm water and apply pressure to the attachment site until bleeding stops.

While we understand that leeches can be a pest on our dogs, it is good to know that these tips will reduce the incidence of leeches attaching to your pooch. Remember to :

• Avoiding Leech-Infested Areas

• Protective Clothing

• Use Dog Safe Chemical Repellents that are vet recommended such as Troy Chloromide.

• Maintain regular Grooming

• Check for Leeches twice daily in coastal areas

• Keep your backyard free of debris, like fallen leaves that leeches thrive in

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