How can a tick be retrieved from a dog's ear? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool to grasp the parasite as close to the ear canal skin as possible, then pull upward with steady, even pressure until it detaches. Clean the site with antiseptic and watch for any irritation or infection.
How can a tick be retrieved from a dog's ear? - in detail
Removing a tick from a dog’s ear requires precision, proper tools, and strict hygiene.
First, gather a pair of fine‑pointed tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal device, a clean cloth, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), and a disposable container for the specimen if laboratory analysis is needed.
- Restrain the dog gently but securely to prevent sudden movements.
- Part the hair around the affected ear using the cloth or a comb, exposing the tick’s body.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the abdomen to reduce the risk of pathogen release.
- Apply steady, upward traction until the mouthparts detach completely; do not twist or jerk, which can leave fragments embedded.
- Place the extracted tick in a sealed container with a damp paper towel if identification or testing is required.
After removal, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 48 hours. If any abnormal signs appear, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Dispose of used tools in a sealed bag and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Regular ear examinations, especially after walks in tick‑infested areas, help detect infestations early and reduce the need for invasive removal.