When attempting to remove a tick avoid handling the parasite directly. Wear gloves and dispose of ticks hygienically so they cannot re-attach themselves or lay eggs.
If you find a tick on your pet’s skin:
- The aim is to remove the whole tick, including its mouthparts without squeezing the tick's body
- Use a specially designed hook or scoop with a narrow slot that traps the tick's mouthparts
- Slide the hook under the tick at skin level so as to grip the head of the tick, ensure that the hook is not entangled
- Scoop out the tick – rotating the hook around the tick's head may help dislodge the mouthparts before removal
- Flush the tick down the lavatory (or sink - with hot water)
- Buy a tick removal tool and keep it in your pet first-aid box
Do not attempt to burn, cut or pull the tick off with your fingers.
If in doubt, take your pet to the vet.
