How does a removed tick from a dog look? - briefly
The removed tick appears as a small, oval, engorged parasite, typically dark brown to gray, with a swollen body and visible mouthparts still attached to the skin. Its size may range from a few millimeters to over a centimeter depending on the feeding stage.
How does a removed tick from a dog look? - in detail
A tick that has been detached from a dog presents a distinct morphology that differs from its attached state. The body is flattened, oval, and measures approximately 3–5 mm in length for adult female specimens; males are generally smaller, around 2–3 mm. The dorsal surface is smooth, lacking the engorged, swollen appearance seen when the parasite has fed. The coloration ranges from reddish‑brown to dark brown, depending on the species and degree of blood ingestion prior to removal.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Capitulum (mouthparts): Visible as a small, protruding structure at one end, often appearing as a dark, pointed tip. Incomplete removal may leave portions of the capitulum embedded in the skin, which can be identified by a tiny, pin‑like projection.
- Scutum (hard shield): A hard, shield‑like plate covering the anterior half of the body. In females, the scutum is smaller, allowing expansion of the posterior region during feeding; after removal, it remains rigid and unaltered.
- Legs: Eight slender legs extend from the ventral side, each bearing tiny claws that may be partially retracted. Leg positioning may appear slightly splayed due to the loss of attachment pressure.
- Surface texture: The exoskeleton is glossy, with a fine, granular pattern that can be felt when the specimen is handled gently. No visible blood clots or coagulated material remain on the tick’s exterior after thorough cleaning.
When examined under magnification, the tick’s internal organs are not visible, but the cuticle may show faint lines indicating segmentation. The absence of a swollen abdomen confirms that the tick has been successfully detached and has not retained a significant blood meal.