What should you do when a dog catches a tick? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the bite site with antiseptic and watch the dog for signs of infection or illness. If the tick is embedded deeply or the dog shows abnormal symptoms, contact a veterinarian promptly.
What should you do when a dog catches a tick? - in detail
When a tick attaches to a dog, immediate removal reduces the risk of disease transmission. Follow these steps precisely.
First, gather the required tools: fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal hook, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, clean towels, and a sealed container for the specimen. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the tick’s mouthparts.
Next, locate the tick. It is usually found on the head, ears, neck, or between the toes. Part the fur with a towel to expose the parasite. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, holding the head or mouthparts without squeezing the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; do not twist or jerk, which can leave fragments embedded.
After extraction, place the tick in a labeled vial with alcohol for identification if a veterinarian requests it. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for redness or swelling. Dispose of the glove and tools safely.
Observe the dog for at least two weeks. Record any signs such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, lameness, or joint swelling. If any symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian promptly and provide details of the tick removal and the specimen, if retained.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining a regular schedule of approved tick preventatives, checking the dog’s coat after outdoor activities, and keeping the yard free of tall grass and leaf litter. Regular grooming and prompt removal of any discovered ticks are essential components of an effective control program.