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
Although I managed the removal, I learned it’s often best to let professionals handle it—especially if:
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The tick is deeply embedded
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You’re unsure how long it’s been attached
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You see signs of a rash, fever, or unusual behavior
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Your pet seems lethargic or ill afterward
Both doctors and veterinarians can assess for disease and offer treatment, including antibiotics if needed. I took my dog to the vet the next day for peace of mind.
How to Prevent Future Tick Problems
Since that experience, I’ve become a lot more proactive:
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I now use veterinarian-recommended tick preventatives monthly.
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We avoid tall grasses and stick to clear trails.
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I give my dog (and myself) a tick check after every walk.
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We keep the yard trimmed and free of leaf piles or brush where ticks thrive.
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I also wear long sleeves and light-colored clothes when hiking to spot ticks early.
Final Thoughts
Ticks are more than just gross—they’re dangerous. But they’re also manageable if you’re informed and prepared. If you find a tick on yourself or your pet, don’t panic. Remove it properly, disinfect the area, and monitor for symptoms. And when in doubt, always consult a medical professional.
That summer taught me a lot about ticks—and even more about staying calm under pressure. Now, every walk in the woods ends with a quick tick-check ritual. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential—and it gives me peace of mind knowing I’m doing everything I can to protect both of us.