How can ticks be removed from a puppy's ears? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the area with an antiseptic solution. Inspect the ear for any remaining mouthparts and repeat the process if necessary.
How can ticks be removed from a puppy's ears? - in detail
Ticks that attach to a puppy’s ear canal must be extracted quickly to avoid disease transmission.
Gather the following items before starting: disposable gloves, fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal hook, a magnifying glass or lamp, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), cotton balls, and a small container with alcohol for the removed tick.
- Secure the puppy in a calm position; an assistant can hold the animal gently but firmly.
- Examine the ear opening and inner folds for the parasite. The tick’s body appears as a dark, raised bump; its legs may be visible.
- Using tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding pressure on the abdomen to prevent saliva release.
- Pull upward with steady, even force; do not twist or jerk. Continue until the head detaches completely.
- Inspect the bite site; if any part of the mouth remains, repeat the grasp‑and‑pull step.
- Apply antiseptic to the wound, then dab with a clean cotton ball.
After removal, monitor the ear for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours. If inflammation persists, apply a veterinarian‑approved topical antibiotic or seek professional care.
If identification of the tick species is required, place the whole specimen in a sealed vial with alcohol and label it with the date and location of discovery.
Preventive measures include regular ear inspections, maintaining short ear hair, and administering a veterinarian‑recommended tick preventive (topical, oral, or collar).
Consult a veterinarian immediately if the tick is deeply embedded, the mouth cannot be removed, or the puppy shows signs of fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite after the bite.