If the body is still attached, grasp the tick’s body as close to the skin as possible. That’ll give you the best chance of getting the head out, too. [5] X Expert Source Natalie Punt, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 19 August 2021. If the head breaks apart into tiny pieces as you remove it, don’t try and dig around, or you might cause infection. [6] X Research source Sterilize your tweezers with isopropyl alcohol both before and after you pull the tick out. [7] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source To transmit disease, a tick usually needs to be embedded for 36 hours. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Soak the skin in warm water to help expel the head faster. [11] X Research source

If you just have a tick head, dispose of the head safely by putting it in alcohol or flushing it down the toilet.

Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. [15] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Cleaning the bite area is also a safe wound care step for pets. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Just use a non-toxic soap designed for pets. You shouldn’t use shampoo designed for humans, because our skin has a different pH. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source

Pets may have an allergic reaction to over-the-counter antibiotic ointment for humans. Apply a small amount first to test your pet’s tolerance. As long as they don’t develop a rash or hives, it’s safe to use. [20] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source If you decide to use polysporin on your dog, you should also cover the tick bite or put your pet in a cone to prevent them from ingesting the ointment.

Chills Fatigue Redness, soreness, or swelling at the bite site

You can, however, bring the tick to a vet or doctor for visual identification. They can give you information based on your region and the type of tick to help you figure out if you’re at risk for Lyme disease. [26] X Expert Source Natalie Punt, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 19 August 2021.