How do I remove a tick correctly?
Tick bites are not only annoying, but can also transmit diseases such as Lyme disease or TBE (tick-borne encephalitis). It is therefore important to remove a tick correctly and as quickly as possible. Here you will find out how to do this correctly - both for humans and dogs.
Removing a tick from humans
- keep Calm: A tick should be removed carefully so as not to crush it.
- Use suitable tools: Use tick tweezers, pointed tweezers or a special tick card.
- grabbing a tick: Place the tool as close to the skin as possible and grab the tick directly by the head.
- Pull out slowly: Pull the tick straight out with a steady pull, without twisting or squeezing it.
- disinfect the bite site: Clean the area with a disinfectant.
- Dispose of the tick: Do not crush the tick with your fingers. Dispose of it safely by securing it with tape or placing it in a sealed container.
- observe the bite site: In the following weeks, pay attention to skin changes such as redness or flu-like symptoms and consult a doctor if you suspect an infection.
Removing ticks from dogs
- calming the dog: Keep your dog calm and provide good lighting.
- Use appropriate tools: Tick tweezers or a tick card are best. Tick tweezers are also available at our kiosk.
- Grab the tick directly by the head: Grasp the tick as close to your dog's skin as possible.
- Pull out slowly: Pull the tick out carefully and straight without twisting it.
- check the bite site: If any tick remains in the skin, observe the area and, if in doubt, consult a veterinarian.
- Dispose of ticks safely: Do not crush the tick with your fingers, but dispose of it safely.
- dog watching: If your dog behaves strangely or the bite site swells, you should consult a veterinarian.
Tips for Tick Prevention
- In humans: Wear long clothing, use anti-tick sprays and check the body for ticks after spending time outdoors.
- For dogs: Check for ticks regularly, use special tick collars or spot-on preparations.
With the right precautions and quick, professional removal, the risk of tick-borne diseases can be minimized. Stay alert and protect yourself and your dog!