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Table 1 Parameters used to describe observed ticks at each assessment

From: A randomized controlled trial of the efficacy of orally administered fluralaner (Bravecto™) against induced Ixodes holocyclus (Australian paralysis tick) infestations on dogs

Parameter

Choices

Comments

Viability

Live, Dead

Live ticks showed leg movement, no crenation and possible engorgement, presence of tick faeces and/or attachment site inflammation. Dead ticks had no leg movement, no reaction when stimulated, and possible crenation.

Attachment

Attached, Free

A tick classified as attached had its hypostome embedded into the dog’s skin and was not easily dislodged. A free tick was either live and moving through the coat, or dead and sitting in the hair.

Feeding

Unengorged, Partially Engorged or Fully Engorged

\Unengorged ticks showed no swelling or evidence of blood ingestion; engorged ticks were 12 - 15 mm long, 8- 10 mm wide and had a turgid appearance. Engorged ticks are typically not seen before 6 days post infestation and were not observed during this study because ticks were removed at 72 h post infestation. Engorging ticks show a conspicuous swelling of the alloscutum, and appear wider and longer than unengorged ticks. These ticks also contain blood or digested blood.