Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog got a tick bite while on First Shield. What should I do next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 26 lbs

Our dog use first shield prevention for flea and tick. This morning she had a tick on her stomach that appears to have bit her and broke the skin. We removed tick and washed the area with cold water. What should we do next? Does first shield only prevent bites and not protect dogs from whatever might come if they have been bit?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2017

Flea and tick products like First Shield are supposed to repel fleas and ticks and kill them after attachment, but ticks can still bite. There also seems to be resistance to some products with these ingredients in certain areas. I would recommend talking to your veterinarian about what product they recommend in your area. You should monitor the tick bite and if it is becoming very red, swollen or if you notice discharge you should have a veterinarian take a look, but it is very rare for tick bites to become infected. If you saved the tick your veterinarian may be able to submit it to a reference laboratory to see if it was carrying any tick borne diseases. Otherwise you should watch for signs of tick borne disease like lethargy, decreased appetite, fever and joint pain.

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Ticks are hard to kill with any tick product. Ticks are pretty tough creatures. Most topical flea and tick products will prevent roughly 98% of ticks from biting but some will still latch on like Lady has experienced. Tick borne diseases are the most concerning complication from a tick bite. Depending on where you live, the risk varies. I would recommend to wash the area in an antibacterial soap and call you veterinarian. They may recommend to put Lady on a course of an antibiotic called Doxycycline to prevent anything from being spread. If you have frequent issues with ticks, you may try switching Lady to an oral flea and tick product like Simparica.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored