How to remove a tick safely

Recent research has shown that up to a third of UK dogs are carrying a tick, regardless of what treatments they are on.

As a responsible pet parent, you know that protecting your dog from ticks is crucial. These tiny parasites can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Despite our best efforts to prevent them, ticks can still latch onto our furry friends. Knowing how to safely remove a tick is essential for every dog owner.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you can handle this situation confidently. If the whole tick is not removed, and the mouthparts are left in this can cause irritation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Tick

1. Prepare Your Tools

1. Tick Removal Tool: Use a specialised tick removal tool like a tick twister to grasp the tick.

2. Gloves: Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the tick.

3. Disinfectant: Have antiseptic wipes or a solution ready to clean the bite area after removal.

4. Some tissue or a plastic bag.

2. Find the tick

Inspect your dog: Check your dog’s entire body, especially around the ears, neck, and underbelly, chest and armpits where ticks often hide.

Part the Fur: Use your fingers or a comb to part your dog’s fur and locate the tick.

3. Remove the tick

Lift the tick removal tool very lightly and TURN IT (clockwise or counter-clockwise). The tick detaches itself after 2-3 rotations. Do not pull the tick, lever it (like a crowbar), or twist in one direction then the other.

Do not use Vaseline, or attempt to freeze or burn the tick. This is likely to cause it to vomit, which can increase the chance of infection.

4. Disinfect the Bite Area

Clean the Wound: After removing the tick, clean the bite area with antiseptic wipes or a disinfectant solution to prevent infection.

5. Dispose of the tick

Most people will want to crush a tick once they have removed it either in tissue or a bit of plastic. Ensure that you do not touch the blood or bodily fluids.

4. Disinfect the Bite Area

Watch for symptoms. Keep an eye on the bite area, and watch for fever, lethargy or change in behaviour. Contact your vet if you are concerned.

Repel ticks before they bite with Whippa Snappa Harnesses

Preventing ticks from latching onto your dog in the first place is the best strategy. This is where Whippa Snappa harnesses come in. For pet parents looking for an added layer of protection, Whippa Snappa harnesses are a game-changer. These premium harnesses are embedded with a safe, hypoallergenic and eco-friendly insect repellent that helps keep ticks and other pesky bugs at bay. With reflective strips for added safety during evening walks and a comfortable fit that ensures your dog’s freedom of movement, Whippa Snappa harnesses are perfect for the adventurous pup. Conveniently, these harnesses seamlessly integrate into your daily routine, making it easy to provide continuous protection during every walk.

Flea & Tick Repelling Harness Ocean

£55.99

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Flea & Tick Repelling Harness Enchanted Forest

Flea & Tick Repelling Harness Enchanted Forest

£55.99

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Small

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Large

Flea & Tick Repelling Harness Black

£55.99

Size

Small

Medium

Large

Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they’re a health hazard for both dogs and their owners. By knowing how to remove a tick safely and using preventative measures like Whippa Snappa harnesses, you can keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and tick-free.

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