How to remove a dead tick from a dog? - briefly
Grip the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward in a steady, even motion; then disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic solution.
How to remove a dead tick from a dog? - in detail
When a deceased tick remains attached to a dog’s skin, prompt removal prevents irritation and possible infection.
Gather a pair of fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool, disposable gloves, an antiseptic solution, and a clean cloth. Disinfect the tools and the area around the tick before beginning.
Removal procedure
- Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible, using the tweezers’ tips to grasp the head or mouthparts.
- Apply steady, gentle pressure and pull straight upward; avoid twisting or squeezing the body.
- Continue pulling until the tick releases entirely.
- If the mouthparts stay embedded, use a sterilized needle to lift them carefully, then extract with tweezers.
After extraction, place the tick in a sealed container for identification if needed, then dispose of it in a trash bag. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and wipe the surrounding fur with a damp cloth. Observe the area for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
If inflammation develops, if the dog shows signs of fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, or if any part of the tick remains embedded despite careful effort, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Regular grooming, use of approved tick preventatives, and routine checks after walks in tick‑infested areas reduce the likelihood of dead ticks remaining attached.