This is why removing an attached tick as soon as possible is recommended.
How to Check Your Dog for Ticks
After taking your dog outside—especially in wooded or grassy areas—perform a careful tick check.
Pay particular attention to:
- The ears
- Face
- Neck
- Around the eyes
- Under the collar
- Armpits
- Belly
- Between the toes
- Around the tail
Run your fingers through the dog’s fur and look for small bumps or unusual dark spots.
Regular checks are especially important during periods when ticks are active in your area.
How to Remove a Tick Safely
If you find a tick attached to your dog, remove it promptly.
A recommended approach is:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers or an appropriate tick-removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the dog’s skin as possible.
- Pull upward slowly and steadily.
- Avoid twisting or crushing the tick.
- Clean the bite area with soap and water or an appropriate antiseptic.
Do not try to burn the tick or cover it with petroleum jelly, nail polish, or other substances to make it detach.
These methods are not recommended.
Should You Keep the Tick?
In some situations, a veterinarian or healthcare professional may recommend keeping the tick in a sealed container so that it can potentially be identified.
