What should be done if a tick is on a dog's eye? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the eye surface as possible and pull straight out without squeezing its body, then clean the area with antiseptic and watch for signs of irritation or infection. Contact a veterinarian promptly for professional assessment and any necessary medication.
What should be done if a tick is on a dog's eye? - in detail
A tick attached to a canine’s eye requires immediate, careful action. First, secure the animal to prevent sudden movements that could damage the ocular surface. Use a muzzle or a helper to hold the dog gently but firmly.
Next, examine the eye closely, ideally with a bright light and a magnifying lens, to locate the tick’s head and determine whether it is embedded in the conjunctiva, eyelid margin, or deeper tissues. If the tick is visible on the eyelid or outer surface, proceed with removal; if it appears embedded in the globe or inside the eye, do not attempt extraction—contact a veterinarian without delay.
For external removal, employ fine‑point, straight‑tip tweezers or specialized tick‑removal forceps. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding squeezing the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach completely. Do not twist or jerk, as this can leave fragments behind and increase the risk of infection.
After extraction, clean the area with a sterile saline solution or a mild antiseptic approved for ophthalmic use. Apply a topical antibiotic ointment to reduce bacterial colonization, following the product’s dosage instructions. Observe the dog for signs of irritation, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
Finally, schedule a veterinary examination even if the tick appears fully removed. The vet will assess for secondary infection, inflammation, or potential transmission of tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease or ehrlichiosis. Keep a record of the tick’s appearance and the removal time to aid in diagnosis if systemic symptoms develop.