Put on gloves
Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool
Part the fur and grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
Pull straight out with steady, even pressure
Do not twist, crush, or jerk the tick
Check that the tick’s mouthparts are removed
Clean the bite area with antiseptic or soap and water
Disinfect the tweezers and wash your hands
Save the tick in a sealed container if needed for identification
Monitor your dog for redness, swelling, lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite
Contact a veterinarian if the tick is embedded deeply, the head remains in the skin, or your dog shows symptoms
Use a vet-approved tick preventive to help prevent future ticks