How can ticks be removed from a dog's ears? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick near the ear canal, pull upward with steady pressure, and then clean the site with antiseptic. Dispose of the parasite safely and watch the ear for signs of infection over the next 24‑48 hours.
How can ticks be removed from a dog's ears? - in detail
Ticks lodged in a dog’s ear canal require prompt, careful removal to prevent infection and disease transmission. The procedure involves preparation, inspection, extraction, and after‑care.
First, gather the necessary tools: fine‑point tweezers or a tick‑removal hook, a pair of disposable gloves, antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone‑iodine), cotton balls, and a sealed container with alcohol for disposal. If the dog is anxious, a mild sedative prescribed by a veterinarian may be administered.
Second, restrain the animal gently but securely. Have an assistant hold the head while you examine the ear with a flashlight. Locate the tick; it may be attached to the inner cartilage or deeper within the ear canal. If the ear hair obscures visibility, trim a small area with blunt scissors, taking care not to damage the skin.
Third, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible using the tweezers or hook. Apply steady, upward pressure without twisting. Pull straight out until the mouthparts detach. Avoid squeezing the body, which can release pathogens. If resistance is felt, reposition the tool and repeat the motion; do not force the tick.
Fourth, place the removed tick in the alcohol container for preservation, then disinfect the bite site with the antiseptic solution. Observe the area for prolonged redness, swelling, or discharge. Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to reduce irritation.
Finally, monitor the dog for at least 48 hours. Record any changes in behavior, appetite, or fever and contact a veterinarian if symptoms develop. Regular ear checks and preventive tick treatments (topical, oral, or collar) reduce future infestations.