Tick on a dog's ear: what to do at home? - briefly
If a tick is attached to a dog’s ear, use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. After removal, disinfect the area, monitor the animal for any signs of infection or illness, and seek veterinary advice if symptoms develop.
Tick on a dog's ear: what to do at home? - in detail
A tick attached to a dog’s ear requires prompt, careful removal to prevent disease transmission and tissue damage.
First, gather tools: fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal device, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean container with a lid for the specimen.
- Secure the dog – gently restrain the animal, using a calm voice and, if needed, a second person to hold the head steady.
- Expose the tick – part the fur around the attachment site with a comb or your fingers, keeping the skin taut.
- Grasp the tick – position the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, clasping the tick’s head or mouthparts without squeezing the body.
- Extract steadily – apply a slow, even upward force until the tick detaches. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
- Inspect the bite – if any part remains, repeat the removal process or seek veterinary assistance.
After removal, place the tick in the sealed container, label with date and location, and store it for possible laboratory testing.
Clean the bite area with an antiseptic wipe, then rinse with water. Dispose of gloves and wash hands thoroughly.
Monitor the ear for the next 24‑48 hours. Look for signs of inflammation, swelling, or discharge. If redness persists, the dog shows lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining a regular schedule of approved ectoparasitic treatments, checking the dog’s coat after outdoor activities, and keeping the yard free of tall grass and leaf litter.
These steps provide a complete, home‑based protocol for safely handling a tick found on a canine ear.