How to Remove a Tick

Apr 9, 2012 | Pest Control

You’ve heard the news about the large numbers of ticks that have decided to come out earlier in the season than usual.  But if you are like me you thought “Well that sure stinks that it’s happening to other people but I’m sure it won’t happen to me”.  WRONG!!  Actually, the day Dr. Goo’s Corner: Ticks was posted I came home and found a tick on my beloved boxer!  It’s a good thing I had read that blog post because I knew I had to get that tick off of my dog immediately.

It’s important that ticks are removed quickly and correctly.  To be sure that you know how to properly remove a tick from yourself or your dog, we’ve provided instructions.

How to properly remove a tick:

• Don’t panic
• Using tweezers, grab the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible
• Slowly pull the tick upward with a steady, gentle, and even pressure.  Do not twist or yank the tick; this can cause the mouth of the tick to remain in the skin.  If this happens, try removing the mouth with the tweezers.  If the mouth doesn’t come out do not keep trying, this can cause an irritation of the skin.  Let the skin rest and try again later.  If it still does not come out, see a doctor or veterinarian for advice on having it removed or waiting for it to come out on its own.
• Once the tick has been removed, thoroughly clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
• If any strange symptoms, such as rash or fever, occur in the following weeks, notify a doctor or veterinarian.
• If you think that you may have a tick problem in or around your home call a professional exterminating company to inspect your property.

Picture courtesy of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Ticks in Atlanta and surrounding areas are on the rise this season because of our warm winter.  Trust Northwest to protect your home, family, and pets from ticks.

Have you experienced ticks this season?