“A tick again, ugh!” Dog owners might know this phrase well. If you are a dog owner too, you are very likely to come across this situation. Relax! There is nothing to worry about (I am kidding, it can cause problems).

We should be considerate of our dogs' health, all the times. But when it comes to ticks, especially on the times after outdoor recreation. Woods, grasslands and green heaths are home to these creepy crawlies. And they are always interested in our innocent dogs. Who would refuse such a warm and furry host? Not ticks, at least. 

But no worries! You can remove these ticks very easily yourselves. Be attentive, because ticks can cause infection and pass diseases within 24-36 hours. So make sure to check your pet every day. You can examine them by combing the fur with your hands. Noticed a bump? Not a good sign. Part the hair and observe deeply. 

The ticks are, in most cases, found on toes, around the neck, in or around ears or under leg and arms. The hidden areas! They attach their head with the skin and suck the blood of dogs. Oh, how cruel! If not removed, they can cause infections and diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky mountain disease. So let's see how to remove them before it's too late.

Get Your Gloves

Of course, you don’t want to do it right away with your hands. Any latex or rubber gloves would be a great choice. Ticks are infectious and it's not suitable to not wear any disposable or other gloves.

Get the Tweezer/Tick Removing Tool

Tweezers are easily available and handy tools. Also, there is specialized equipment in the market for the cause. Get your pet in a calm position. You have to  grab the tick from the part closest to the skin of the dog. Then, pull the tweezer upward with steady pressure. Have patience and avoid pulling hard.

 Don’t twist or crush it! Also, don’t push pressure on the abdomen. It might kill the tick right there, in unwanted means. This would lead to the release of toxins inside the dog. We don’t want that! If the head remains inside, don't worry. This might be expelled by the body itself. You can also see the vet if the dog shows any symptoms.

Sanitize the Site of Bite

The head of the tick was dug in the skin, which needs to be sanitized now. Wash the area with an antiseptic and dab with an antibiotic. The infections and germs would be killed off. The used tools also need some soapy water or an antiseptic wash!

Get Rid of the Tick

The bug might attack host in the next 36 hours too. The best way is to take isopropyl alcohol in a plastic bag or a jar with a lid. Put the tick in it and set aside. It can be shown to vet or thrown away.

Keep an Eye on Your Dog

Make sure to stay attentive for the next few weeks. If your dog shows lethargy or any other pathological symptoms, go straight to the vet. The infections can show up even after weeks.

Ticks are not as big an issue if handled with care. And if not, these tiny creatures can cause huge problems. So take good care of your four-legged ones!