Ticks are a common problem for pets, and they can be a nuisance and a health risk. Ticks can transmit diseases to pets, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If you find a tick on your pet, it's important to remove it as soon as possible.

How to Remove Ticks From Pets

Identifying Ticks

Ticks are small, parasitic creatures that feed on the blood of animals. They can be found in wooded areas, fields, and even your own backyard. Ticks have eight legs and a hard, oval body. The body of a tick is usually brown or black, but it can also be red or yellow.

Removing Ticks

If you find a tick on your pet, it's important to remove it as soon as possible. The longer a tick is attached to your pet, the greater the risk of disease transmission. To remove a tick, follow these steps:

  1. Grasp the tick with a pair of tweezers as close to the skin as possible.
  2. Pull the tick straight out, using a slow, steady motion.
  3. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can break the tick's body and leave the head embedded in your pet's skin.
  4. Once the tick is removed, clean the area with a disinfectant.

Preventing Ticks

There are a number of things you can do to prevent ticks from attaching to your pet, including:

  • Keep your pet's fur short.
  • Use a tick repellent on your pet.
  • Check your pet for ticks after every walk.
  • Remove any ticks you find immediately.

When to See a Veterinarian

If you are unable to remove a tick from your pet, or if you notice any signs of illness after your pet has been bitten by a tick, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of illness from a tick bite can include fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.