What should you do if a tick was removed from a dog? - briefly
Clean the area with an antiseptic solution and keep it covered, then observe the dog for fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Contact a veterinarian promptly to discuss possible testing and preventive treatment.
What should you do if a tick was removed from a dog? - in detail
If a tick has been taken off a dog, act promptly to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
First, secure the removal site. Use a pair of fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or crush the body, which can release pathogens. After extraction, place the tick in a sealed container with alcohol for identification if a veterinarian requests it.
Second, cleanse the bite area. Apply a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine) and let it air‑dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may irritate the skin.
Third, monitor the dog for signs of illness. Over the next 2–4 weeks, watch for:
- Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite
- Lameness or joint swelling
- Redness, swelling, or a rash at the bite site
- Unusual behavior or neurological symptoms
If any of these appear, contact a veterinarian immediately and provide details about the tick removal, including the date and the tick’s appearance.
Fourth, consider preventive measures. Maintain a regular tick‑control regimen (topical treatments, collars, or oral medications) as recommended by a veterinary professional. Keep the dog’s environment tidy: trim tall grass, remove leaf litter, and treat the yard with appropriate acaricides.
Finally, document the incident. Record the date of removal, the tick’s size and stage (larva, nymph, adult), and any follow‑up observations. This information assists the veterinarian in diagnosing potential tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis.