A tick was found on a puppy; what should you do? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then disinfect the area, retain the tick for identification, and observe the puppy for fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, seeking veterinary care if any signs develop.
A tick was found on a puppy; what should you do? - in detail
Finding a tick on a young dog requires immediate action to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Follow these steps precisely:
- Gather tools – fine‑pointed tweezers or a commercial tick‑removal device, gloves, antiseptic solution, and a sealed container for the specimen.
- Secure the animal – hold the puppy gently but firmly to prevent sudden movements.
- Locate the mouthparts – grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding the body.
- Extract with steady pressure – pull upward with constant, even force. Do not twist or crush the tick, which can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain embedded.
- Disinfect the site – apply antiseptic to the bite area immediately after removal.
- Preserve the tick – place it in a sealed tube with alcohol if identification or testing is needed.
- Observe the wound – monitor for prolonged redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
After removal, assess the need for veterinary consultation:
- Risk assessment – if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, or if the region is known for Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or ehrlichiosis, contact a veterinarian promptly.
- Testing – a professional may request a blood test to detect early infection markers.
- Preventive measures – discuss long‑term tick control options such as topical acaricides, oral preventatives, or regular grooming in tick‑prone areas.
Maintain a schedule of regular checks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy environments. Early detection and proper removal remain the most effective strategy to protect a puppy’s health.