What to do if my dog has been found with a tick? - briefly
Remove the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers, gripping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out without twisting, then clean the bite site with antiseptic and watch the dog for fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Contact your veterinarian promptly for identification, possible testing, and any necessary medication.
What to do if my dog has been found with a tick? - in detail
If a tick is discovered attached to your dog, act promptly to minimize disease risk.
First, isolate the animal in a safe area to prevent further exposure. Wear disposable gloves or grasp the tick with tweezers to avoid direct contact with bodily fluids.
Next, remove the parasite using fine‑pointed tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal tool. Position the instrument as close to the skin as possible, grasp the tick’s head, and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or crush the body, as this can cause saliva to be released into the wound. After extraction, inspect the mouthparts; if any remain embedded, repeat the removal process.
Disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine. Apply a mild antiseptic spray or wipe to the surrounding skin, then monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
Preserve the removed tick for identification. Place it in a sealed container with a damp cotton ball, label with the date and location of collection, and store it in the refrigerator. Should your veterinarian request a sample, this information aids in diagnosing potential tick‑borne illnesses.
Contact a veterinarian promptly. Provide details about the tick’s appearance, the removal time, and any symptoms your dog exhibits, such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, joint pain, or changes in behavior. The veterinarian may recommend prophylactic treatment, blood tests, or a course of antibiotics depending on the tick species and regional disease prevalence.
Maintain regular tick prevention measures. Apply veterinarian‑approved topical or oral preventatives according to the product’s schedule, keep grass and foliage trimmed, and inspect your dog after outdoor activities, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Frequent checks reduce the likelihood of future infestations and associated health risks.