Comments on: How to Remove Ticks From Pets

on 11/22/2005 I use the Pro-Tick Remedy removal system. It is a small, steel, prong-like tool that is easy to carry. I have in my purse and on the key ring. Really easy to use! (1-800-749-8425) Also Preventick and Tick Arrest have Amitraz in their dog collars.

on 11/22/2005 If you find ticks on your pet, it is best to preserve them in a covered container with alcohol just in case you need to test for Lyme or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The alcohol kills the ticks unlike flushing down the toilet.

on 11/22/2005 When finding a tick on your pet, do not remove by pulling it out. Instead, apply nail polish to the protruding body part so that the tick will release it's grasp (it breathes through this part of its body). Then it can be removed gently with tweezers.

on 11/22/2005 After locating a tick on your pet, try using a small, plastic disposable fork. Slip the tines of the fork under the tick and lift. Dispose of both. Works slick!

on 11/22/2005 In the event that you want to use the new monthly flea and tick treatments, make sure your vet checks your pet for possible adverse reactions first. Our cat passed away after we used the monthly treatment once.

on 11/22/2005 I have found the best device for removing a tick is by the use of locking forceps. They are available at medical supply stores. Attach the tweezer part to the head of the tick and lock. Then pull steadily. They are worth the expense.

on 11/22/2005 My vet told me to put ticks in a jar of alcohol to kill them. Then, you know they are dead!

on 11/22/2005 Dispose of a tick by a lit match or directly in the toilet and flush immediately. Never put directly in garbage as it could still be alive and feed on other things in the garbage.

on 11/22/2005 I have often been successful in removing a tick by grabbing it firmly with thumb and index finger and then rotating it clockwise. The spiraling motion seems to loosen the tick's grip, and no pulling is needed.

on 11/22/2005 Put a fingertip's worth of Vaseline on the tick and he will back out. Be sure to get the tick when he backs out!

on 11/22/2005 Heat the tip of a needle or straight pin with a lighter or match, and stick it to the tick's back. It will turn loose every time. Works for me.

on 11/22/2005 Put some alcohol/surgical spirit on and around the tick. It will let go itself and you do not have to worry about the head remaining under the skin.

on 11/22/2005 Ticks take a while (up to 24 hours) to take a firm bite. If you remove them within that time frame, they will pull off easily. So, check your pet (and yourself) thoroughly after a day outside and you'll have an easier time of removal.

on 11/22/2005 Don't throw ticks you've removed into the toilet. They can live underwater for a time and crawl back into the bathroom. During a serious outbreak years ago, I was advised to dispose of them by putting them in a plastic bag sealed with a twist tie.

on 11/22/2005 I found that putting Neosporin on/around the tick helped keep the dog's fur from getting in the way. I then held a needle in a flame and then gently placed it on the tick's body. It killed him instantly and was able to pull off a lot easier.