Ticks around a dog's eyes: how can I get rid of them? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight upward, then clean the site with an antiseptic. If the tick is deeply embedded, the skin is irritated, or you are uncertain about removal, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Ticks around a dog's eyes: how can I get rid of them? - in detail
Ticks that attach to the skin surrounding a dog’s eyes present a risk of irritation, infection, and disease transmission. Prompt removal and preventive measures are essential.
First, assess the infestation. Examine the peri‑ocular area carefully, using a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to locate all attached parasites. Look for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, which may indicate secondary infection.
Removal procedure
- Gather tools – fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal hook, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean container with a lid.
- Secure the animal – have an assistant hold the dog gently but firmly to prevent sudden movement.
- Grasp the tick – position the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, gripping the tick’s head or mouthparts without squeezing the body.
- Apply steady traction – pull upward in a straight line, avoiding twisting or jerking motions that could leave mouthparts embedded.
- Disinfect the site – after removal, clean the area with a veterinary‑approved antiseptic.
- Dispose of the tick – place it in the sealed container, then freeze or incinerate to prevent accidental release.
If any portion of the tick remains embedded, consult a veterinarian for professional extraction to avoid tissue damage.
Post‑removal care
- Monitor the bite site for persistent redness, swelling, or pus.
- Apply a topical antibiotic ointment if recommended by a veterinarian.
- Observe the dog for systemic symptoms such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, which may signal tick‑borne disease.
Preventive strategies
- Topical acaricides – apply a veterinarian‑approved spot‑on product to the neck and shoulders, ensuring coverage reaches the head region.
- Oral preventatives – administer a chewable medication that circulates in the bloodstream, killing ticks before they attach.
- Environmental control – keep lawns mowed short, remove leaf litter, and treat yard with an appropriate acaricide.
- Regular inspections – conduct thorough checks after walks in wooded or grassy areas, focusing on the eyes, ears, and facial folds.
Vaccination and testing
- Discuss with a veterinarian the availability of vaccines against common tick‑borne pathogens (e.g., Lyme disease).
- Schedule periodic blood tests to detect early infection, especially if the dog lives in high‑risk regions.
By following a systematic removal protocol, providing diligent after‑care, and implementing comprehensive prevention, the likelihood of recurring peri‑ocular tick infestations can be markedly reduced.