What should be done for a subcutaneous tick on a dog? - briefly
Remove the embedded tick by making a small incision with sterile scissors, extracting the parasite completely, then disinfect the wound and apply a topical antibiotic; monitor the site for swelling, redness, or discharge over the next 48‑72 hours. If any signs of infection appear or the dog shows fever or lethargy, seek veterinary care immediately.
What should be done for a subcutaneous tick on a dog? - in detail
A tick lodged beneath the skin of a dog requires immediate, careful intervention to prevent infection and disease transmission.
First, confirm the presence of a partially embedded tick by gently parting the fur and examining the area for a small, raised nodule or a visible tick head.
Next, gather the necessary tools: fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal hook, sterile gauze, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine), and a clean container with a lid for disposal.
Proceed with removal as follows:
- Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible.
• Use tweezers to grasp the mouthparts, avoiding compression of the body. - Apply steady, downward traction.
• Pull straight out without twisting or jerking, which could detach the mouthparts and leave them embedded. - Inspect the extracted specimen.
• Ensure the entire tick, including the capitulum, has been removed; incomplete extraction warrants a repeat attempt.
After the tick is out:
- Clean the bite site with antiseptic, then pat dry.
- Observe the wound for signs of inflammation, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
- If any portion of the tick remains, consider consulting a veterinarian for surgical removal.
Record the removal date and preserve the tick (in a sealed container) for potential laboratory testing if disease is suspected.
Finally, implement preventive measures:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved acaricide (spot‑on, collar, or oral medication) according to the product schedule.
- Perform routine tick checks after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Maintain the dog’s environment by keeping grass trimmed and removing leaf litter where ticks thrive.
Prompt, thorough extraction combined with proper wound care and ongoing prevention minimizes health risks associated with subcutaneous tick infestations.