Wear disposable gloves
Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool
Part the fur and locate the tick close to the skin
Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
Pull upward with steady, even pressure
Do not twist, crush, or jerk the tick
Make sure the entire tick is removed
Clean the bite area with antiseptic or soap and water
Dispose of the tick in alcohol or a sealed bag/container
Wash your hands and disinfect the tool
Monitor the dog for redness, swelling, lethargy, or illness
Contact a veterinarian if the mouthparts remain, the area becomes infected, or the dog shows symptoms
