How to remove a tick from a dog

1. Get your gloves on

Because ticks love to cling to animals and humans, it’s best to wear protective gloves when removing them. Try doing it when your dog is already calm and relaxed. If your dog is nervous or wriggling, you might need a helping hand and someone to distract and soothe while you get to work.

2. Grab the tick with a special tick-removing tool

Make sure you’re in a good light or use a torch because it’s super important that you remove the whole tick and not just its head. Use a special tick remover and position it under the tick’s body - close to your dog’s skin. There are a few different tick removers out there, so check the instructions to see whether yours is one you pull out straight or one you twist. Alternatively, you can use tweezers.

3. Twist or pull, depending on the instructions

If your tick remover looks like a small hook, you’ll need to twist clockwise motion a few times to get the tick out. Some other removers will ask you to pull in a straight line to get the tick loose. If you’re using tweezers, pull upwards in a straight line. Make sure you pull or twist with even, steady pressure to get it all out.

4. Check it’s completely gone

Once you’ve pulled or twisted the tick out, check that it’s entirely gone. If it’s torn - or the head is still burrowed into the skin - don’t worry. Just contact your vet, and they’ll advise you.

5. Dispose of the tick properly

We recommend putting the tick inside a small container and pouring on some alcohol. Then dispose of it in an outside bin. Or you could fold it in a bit of sticky tape and put it in the bin. Make sure you keep your gloves on and don’t dispose of the tick while it’s still alive.

6. Clean the bite and soothe your pooch

When you’re done, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol and wash your hands thoroughly. Then, give your dog lots of cuddles to say well done.

Now you know what to do, so there’s no need to let these bloodsuckers spoil a good walk. But if you’re ever in doubt or are worried you haven’t removed the tick properly, just call your vet.