Removing Ticks From You And Your Pet

Removing Ticks From You And Your Pet

Ticks are parasites that latch onto our and our dog’s skin. They are usually harmless but must be removed to reduce the risk of Lyme disease or infection.

They have pretty strong grips, and when removing them, their head may get left behind. This must also be removed safely.

Removing tick head from yourself

The first thing you should do is sterilize the area to prevent spreading bacteria. Some rubbing alcohol should do the trick. Next:

  • Clean a pair of tweezers with soap and hot water. Use the angled edge to grab the tick’s head, or ask someone else to help you. Pull it out in one quick motion.
  • If the tweezer is ineffective, sterilize a needle, then use the needle to widen the tick’s hole. Gently scrape it out with the needle, or try your tweezer again.

Do not use a credit card as this will only spread bacteria.

Removing tick head from your dog

This may be tricky, so make sure your dog is calm. Enlist help if you must and use treats if necessary. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol and remove as you would with tweezers. If your dog permits, try the needle. Otherwise, call your vet.

You’ll know the tick is gone if you don’t see any moving legs or its head on the edge of your tweezers or needle.

Leaving the tick’s head may lead to…

If you leave the tick’s head in the skin, you or your pet may contract a tick-borne disease. It may also leave a hard bump on your skin as it heals over the bite.

You may save the tick’s head in case it needs to be tested. Suffocate it with rubbing alcohol then store it in an airtight container. Never crush a tick with your fingers.

When to contact a vet or doctor

Contact a doctor if:

  • You develop a rash, joint pain, muscle stiffness, or fever
  • The tick is still there after 24 hours
  • The bite becomes infected (white or green discharge)

Symptoms of Lyme disease may take up to 30 days to appear after a tick bite.

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