Help! My Dog Has a Tick!
You found one (or multiple) on your dog. Don’t panic!
Finding a tick is never fun but removing it quickly and correctly can help reduce the chance of disease transmission. Over the years I’ve tried a lot of gadgets, but they haven’t been as easy to use and as effective as the Tickkey.
Why Removing a Tick Correctly Matters
When removing these pests, the goal is to remove the entire tick—including the mouthparts—as cleanly as possible.
Avoid:
- Twisting the body and head with your fingers or tweezers
- Crushing or squeezing its body
- Smothering it with petroleum jelly or oils
- Burning it with a match
These old methods can actually make the tick harder to remove and may increase the chance that it regurgitates into the bite.
Why I Recommend this tool
The TickKey isn’t fancy. In fact, that’s exactly why I like it. It’s very easy to use and I have personally used it on my dogs.
You just need to get the tick in the notch and pull it slowly out and a flat level using gentle pressure. It pops right off. If the tick is already engorged, you just need to put it at the base. I get a little squeamish at this point, but you have to keep your nerves.
It is safe to use on dogs, cats, horses and humans. If you are a frequent hiker, keep it on your keychain or glove box. You can even attach it to a carabiner to clip onto your dog’s harness, your backpack and keys. This is one tool you never want to use but always want to have. A must for campers!
What To Do After Removing the Tick
Once it is safely removed:
- Clean the bite area with soap and water or an antiseptic.
- Wash your hands.
- If possible, save the tick in a sealed container or bag in case your veterinarian or doctor recommends identification.
- Watch the bite site over the next few weeks for redness, swelling, or irritation.
- Monitor your dog for signs like lethargy, fever, limping, loss of appetite, or swollen joints, and contact your veterinarian if anything seems unusual.
- If you want to get rid of the it, the best bet is to squish it or submerge it in a sealed container of rubbing alcohol. It can climb up a drain or out of the garbage if you don’t ensure it is dead. Ticks can even survive a flush!
Prevention Is Still Your Best Defense
A TickKey is an excellent tool to have on hand, but it’s not a replacement for tick prevention for pets.
For tick repellants for pets, we recommend:
- Using a repellent or preventative. Or a dual method. Remember an internal preventative doesn’t keep them off but should kill when it bites. However, a repellent helps to keep them off in the first place. You can do both, just carefully read the packaging since there are many different products.
- Checking your dog after every hike or walk through tall grass.
- Running your hands over your dog’s entire body, especially around the ears, neck, armpits, toes, and under the collar.
- Keeping this key handy wherever you and your dog spend time outdoors.
The TickKey is a must have for any pet parent or even hiker! We carry these tools year-round instore and are available for shipping. These come in a variety of different colors. Check out this must have tool and the rest of our Products to help keep you and your pet’s safe!
Have any questions about the TickKey or recommendations? Just ask!
If you are in DuPage County and find any ticks, please report them!