What should be done if a dog has a tick under the skin? - briefly
Use fine-point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the bite site and watch for signs of infection or illness, seeking veterinary care if any abnormalities appear.
What should be done if a dog has a tick under the skin? - in detail
A tick that has penetrated beneath the fur requires immediate removal to prevent disease transmission and tissue damage. First, locate the parasite by parting the coat and examining the skin for a small, dark, raised bump. If the tick’s mouthparts are visible, grasp them with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting, which can leave the head embedded. After extraction, clean the bite site with an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine.
Monitor the area for swelling, redness, or discharge over the next 48 hours. If any of these signs appear, or if the dog shows lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or lameness, seek veterinary care promptly. The veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, anti‑inflammatory medication, or a tick‑preventive product.
To reduce future incidents, implement a regular tick‑control regimen that includes:
- Monthly topical or oral acaricides approved for dogs.
- Routine grooming and inspection after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Maintenance of the yard by trimming vegetation and applying safe tick‑control treatments.
Keep a record of the tick’s removal date, location on the body, and any observed symptoms. This information assists the veterinarian in diagnosing potential tick‑borne illnesses such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis.