What should be done if a dog has a tick in its ear? - briefly
Grasp the tick near the ear canal with fine‑point tweezers, pull upward steadily without twisting, and then clean the site with a mild antiseptic. Monitor the ear for redness or swelling and consult a veterinarian if irritation or other symptoms develop.
What should be done if a dog has a tick in its ear? - in detail
If a canine ear harbors a tick, immediate removal is required to prevent irritation, infection, and disease transmission.
First, secure the animal. Use a calm, firm grip or enlist assistance; a muzzle may be necessary for safety.
Second, examine the ear closely. Locate the tick’s head, which is usually embedded near the ear canal entrance.
Third, extract the parasite with fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or crushing.
Fourth, disinfect the site. Apply a mild antiseptic such as chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine to the puncture area.
Fifth, dispose of the tick safely. Place it in a sealed container with alcohol for identification if needed, then discard.
Sixth, observe the dog for the next 24‑48 hours. Watch for swelling, redness, discharge, or signs of discomfort; any adverse reaction warrants veterinary evaluation.
Seventh, consider a veterinary visit if:
- the tick is difficult to reach or appears embedded in the canal,
- the ear shows persistent inflammation,
- the dog displays fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite,
- the region is in a high‑risk area for tick‑borne diseases.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Regularly inspect ears during grooming, maintain a tick‑preventive regimen (topical, oral, or collar), and keep the environment free of tall grass and leaf litter where ticks thrive.
Following these steps eliminates the immediate threat and reduces the likelihood of future infestations.