Dealing with Ticks: What I Learned the Hard Way
Ticks are tiny, blood-sucking parasites that latch onto the skin of animals and humans, often going unnoticed until it’s too late. While they might seem like a minor nuisance at first, these pests can carry and transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis, making them a real concern—especially during the warmer months.
Last summer, I experienced this firsthand when my dog turned into what I jokingly now call a “tick magnet.” No matter how careful we were during walks or outdoor playtime, he always came back with a few unwanted hitchhikers buried in his fur. One evening, I found three ticks on him—clinging stubbornly to his neck, ears, and belly. It was my first real encounter with ticks, and while I kept my cool on the outside, I was panicking internally.
The Removal Process: What Actually Works
If you’ve never removed a tick before, the process is nerve-wracking—but it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. Here’s what helped me get through it:
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Stay Calm and Don’t Squeeze
The first rule: don’t panic. Ticks look scary, but yanking them out too quickly or improperly can cause more harm than good. Avoid squeezing the body, as it may inject more pathogens into the skin. -
Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers
I used pointed tweezers to grab the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible—right where its mouthparts were embedded. -
Steady, Straight Pull
With a deep breath, I pulled straight upward, using slow and steady pressure. Twisting or jerking could break the tick and leave parts under the skin, increasing infection risk. -
Disinfect Everything
After removal, I cleaned the area thoroughly with soap and water, followed by alcohol swabs. I also cleaned my hands and the tweezers. -
Save the Tick (Optional)
I learned later that it’s wise to save the tick in a sealed container or baggie (labeled with the date), in case symptoms appear and testing is needed.
My friend, a fellow dog owner, was on a video call with me during the process—cheering me on from a very safe, tick-free distance. While their moral support didn’t remove the tick, it definitely helped calm my nerves.
When to Call the Doctor or Vet
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