Finding a tick attached to your dog can be worrying, especially when several are hiding beneath the fur. Ticks commonly attach around the ears, neck, between the toes, under the legs, and other areas where they can be difficult to spot. Because some ticks can transmit infections, removing them as soon as possible is an important part of protecting your pet.

Before removing a tick, keep your dog calm and have a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or a proper tick-removal tool ready. Separate the fur so you can clearly see where the tick is attached. Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible, avoiding squeezing its body, and pull upward slowly and steadily.

Try not to twist, crush, burn, or cover the tick with substances such as oil, alcohol, petroleum jelly, or nail polish while it is attached. These methods can irritate the skin and may make removal more difficult. After the tick has been removed, place it in a sealed container or bag if you want to keep it for possible identification.

Clean the bite area gently with soap and water or a pet-safe antiseptic, and wash your hands afterward. Then carefully check your dog’s entire body for additional ticks. Pay particular attention to the ears, around the eyes, collar area, paws, and between the toes, where ticks can easily go unnoticed.

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After a tick bite, monitor your dog for changes such as unusual tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, fever, swollen joints, or other unusual behavior. Some tick-borne illnesses can take time to cause symptoms, so contact your veterinarian if your dog becomes unwell or if you are concerned about the bite. Regular tick prevention recommended by your veterinarian can also help reduce the risk of future infestations.