A tick is on my Yorkie; what should I do? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure; then disinfect the site with an antiseptic. Observe the dog for several days for fever, lethargy, or a rash, and contact a veterinarian promptly if any symptoms appear.
A tick is on my Yorkie; what should I do? - in detail
A tick attached to a Yorkie requires immediate attention to avoid transmission of pathogens.
First, perform a thorough inspection of the coat, focusing on warm, hidden areas such as the neck, ears, and between the toes. Note the tick’s size and the duration of attachment, as these factors influence disease risk.
Removal procedure:
- Gather sterile fine‑tipped tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a sealable container for the specimen.
- Wearing gloves, grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, securing the mouthparts without crushing the body.
- Apply steady, upward traction; avoid twisting or jerking motions that could leave mouthparts embedded.
- Once detached, place the tick in the container, add a drop of alcohol, and seal for potential identification.
- Disinfect the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for excessive bleeding or inflammation.
Post‑removal care:
- Record the date, location, and appearance of the tick.
- Observe the dog for at least two weeks for signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, joint swelling, or skin lesions.
- If any abnormal symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian promptly and provide the preserved tick for laboratory analysis.
Preventive strategies:
- Administer a veterinarian‑approved tick‑preventive product year‑round, following the recommended dosage for small breeds.
- Conduct weekly coat checks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Maintain the yard by trimming vegetation, removing leaf litter, and applying appropriate acaricides if advised by a professional.
Prompt removal, vigilant monitoring, and consistent prevention constitute the most effective approach to protect a Yorkie from tick‑borne illnesses.