How to remove a subcutaneous tick from a dog? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach, then clean the site with antiseptic and watch for signs of infection. If the parasite is deeply embedded, seek veterinary assistance for safe removal.
How to remove a subcutaneous tick from a dog? - in detail
Removing a tick that has penetrated beneath the skin of a canine demands precision to avoid tearing the mouthparts and causing infection. Begin by confirming the presence of a tick; look for a small, rounded swelling or a visible protrusion under the fur. Gather the following tools: fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal hook, sterile gauze, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), and a container with a lid for disposal.
- Prepare the area – Trim surrounding hair if necessary to expose the tick clearly. Clean the skin with antiseptic to reduce bacterial load.
- Grip the tick – Using tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, targeting the head or the mouthparts. If a hook is used, slide it beneath the tick to lift it gently.
- Apply steady traction – Pull upward with consistent pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking motions. A smooth, continuous pull extracts the entire organism, minimizing the chance of leaving fragments embedded.
- Inspect the removed tick – Verify that the mouthparts are intact. If any portion remains, repeat the extraction process on the residual tissue.
- Disinfect the wound – Apply antiseptic to the bite site and allow it to air dry. Monitor the area for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
- Dispose of the tick – Place the specimen in a sealed container, then submerge it in alcohol or flush it down the toilet. Record the date of removal in case of later disease testing.
- Observe the dog – Watch for signs of illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or joint pain. Prompt veterinary evaluation is required if any systemic symptoms appear.
If the tick is deeply embedded, the skin is inflamed, or the owner feels uncertain about complete removal, seek professional veterinary assistance immediately. Proper technique and post‑removal care significantly reduce the risk of secondary infection and tick‑borne disease transmission.