Ticks are icky little creatures that can wreak havoc on your health. These blood-sucking pests are not only gross, but they can also transmit dangerous diseases to both humans and animals.
Getting ticks out of your dog’s ears can be a challenge, but it’s important to do it safely and quickly to prevent any further problems.
Using a tick hook or tweezers, carefully take hold of the tick and ensure that it’s close to the skin. Gently pull it upwards, to prevent crushing the tick’s body.
Once the tick is removed, disinfect the area and wash your hands thoroughly. Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of illness and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Important Things to Remember When Taking out Ticks from Dog’s Ears
As any pet owner knows, ticks can be a real problem for dogs. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they can also transmit diseases to your furry friend.
If left untreated, ticks can breed and multiply faster than you can imagine. If you find a tick on your dog’s ear, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Remove the Tick as Soon as Possible
First, it’s important to remove the tick as soon as possible. The longer it stays attached, the greater the risk of disease transmission.
Ticks that linger and stay in the dog’s ears for an extended period of time are also more likely to cause irritation and infection.
Use the Right Tools
Don’t try to remove the tick with your bare hands. Instead, use a tick hook. A tick hook is the best tool for the job, as this tool is specifically designed to remove ticks without crushing their bodies.
When the tick’s head stays lodged in the skin, it can cause a serious infection.
Alternatively, tweezers may also work if you don’t have a tick hook.
Be Gentle
When removing the tick, be gentle. Grasp the tick as close to the dog’s skin as possible and pull it straight out.
If you try to jerk or twist the tick, you risk tearing its body which can be painful for your dog and increase the chances of infection.
Grasp the Tick Close to the Skin
When using a tick hook or tweezers, be sure to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
This will help ensure that the entire tick is removed and decreases the risk of leaving behind the tick’s head.
Only Remove Ticks Near the Ear
Never try to remove a tick that’s located deep inside the ear canal. This is a sensitive area, and you could cause severe damage if you’re not careful.
If you find a tick in your dog’s ear, it’s best to take them to the vet so they can safely remove it.
Read More: What Temperature Do Ticks Become Inactive?
How to Remove Ticks from Dog’s Ears
It may be scary to find a tick on your dog, but it’s essential to remove it as soon as possible. As soon as you find one, follow these steps:
Keep the Dog Relaxed
Relaxing your dog during the tick removal process is vital. If you try to remove the tick while your dog is anxious, it will be much more complicated and could cause your dog unnecessary stress.
There are a few ways to help keep your dog relaxed. First, try talking in a soothing voice and petting your dog’s head while you work. You can also give your dog a treat after each step of the process for positive reinforcement.
Some essential oils like lavender oil can also help keep your dog calm. Simply add a few drops to a bandana and tie it around your dog’s neck before beginning the tick removal process.
Running a diffuser near the area can also help keep your dog calm and relaxed.
Use the Right Tools
Before you start, gather the supplies you’ll need. In addition to a tick hook or fine-tipped tweezers, you’ll also need antiseptic wipes, alcohol, cotton balls, and a pair of gloves.
Remove the Tick
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to remove the tick. A tick hook is particularly designed for this purpose and is the safest tool to use.
They are relatively easy to find, and every pet owner should have one on hand. If you don’t have a tick hook, fine-tipped tweezers may temporarily work.
Put on your gloves and gently grasp the tick as close to the dog’s skin as possible. Using a slow and steady motion, pull the tick straight out.
Don’t try to take it out in multiple attempts, as this can cause the tick to break and increase the risk of infection. If you do accidentally crush the tick’s body, be sure to disinfect the area immediately.
Disinfect the Area
Once the tick is removed, it’s important to disinfect the area immediately. With your cotton balls and antiseptic wipes, gently clean the area around the bite.
Be sure to pay close attention to any areas where the tick’s head may have been left behind.
Doing this will help prevent infection and ensure that any remaining bacteria are killed. If necessary, you can apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
Even after taking all the necessary precautions, it’s still important to monitor your dog for any signs of infection. Watch for redness, swelling, or discharge around the bite site.
Aside from checking the site itself, also be on the lookout for any changes in your dog’s behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to contact your vet right away.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal to feel worried if you find a tick on your dog. However, it’s important to remember that ticks are more of a nuisance than anything else.
Put on a pair of gloves and use a tick hook or fine-tipped tweezers to remove the tick and make sure that you do this as close as possible as you can to your dog’s skin.
Then, disinfect the area and monitor for any signs of infection. Repeat these steps if necessary, and always be sure to contact your vet if you have any concerns.
