How should a tick be removed from a dog's ear correctly? - briefly
Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑tipped tweezers and pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach. Disinfect the site with an appropriate antiseptic and observe the ear for signs of infection over the next 24‑48 hours.
How should a tick be removed from a dog's ear correctly? - in detail
Removing a tick from a canine ear requires a sterile approach, precise handling, and immediate aftercare.
First, restrain the dog safely to prevent sudden movements. A second person may hold the head gently while the handler works on the ear.
Gather the following instruments: fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), cotton swabs, and a sealed container with alcohol for the extracted tick.
The procedure:
- Wear gloves, then clean the area around the tick with antiseptic to reduce bacterial contamination.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the abdomen.
- Apply steady, upward traction parallel to the ear surface; do not twist or jerk, which can rupture the mouthparts.
- Continue pulling until the entire tick separates from the tissue.
- Inspect the mouthparts; if any fragment remains, repeat the grip and extraction.
After removal, place the tick in alcohol for identification if needed. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge.
Observe the dog for at least 24 hours. Signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain may indicate infection or disease transmission; contact a veterinarian promptly.
Maintain regular ear examinations, especially after walks in tick‑infested areas, to detect and address infestations early.