Ehrlichia
Guides
Rhipicephalus sanguineus
Brown Dog Tick, Kennel Tick, Pantropical Dog Tick
Rhipicephalus sanguineus is a hard tick species distinguished by its ability to complete its entire life cycle indoors, a trait unusual among ixodid ticks. It is found worldwide but is most common in warmer climates. The species is a three-host tick that feeds on a variety of mammals, with dogs serving as the preferred host in the United States. It is a significant vector of multiple pathogens affecting dogs and humans, including Ehrlichia canis, Babesia canis, Rickettsia rickettsii, and Rickettsia conorii.