Tick removal for dogs in Australia
Introduction
Found a tick on your dog? Stay calm and remove it promptly. This guide shows you how to take a tick off safely, what to do after, and how to prevent future ticks. If you need one-to-one advice right now, contact us.
How to remove a tick from a dog
-
Gather tools. Fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool, clean tissues, and a small sealed container or zip bag.
-
Part the coat. Expose the tick and the skin around it.
-
Grip close to the skin. Hold the tick by the mouthparts, not the body.
-
Lift straight out. Apply steady, even pressure until it releases. Do not twist or jerk.
-
Secure the tick. Place it in the sealed container in case your vet wants to identify it.
-
Clean the site. Dab with saline or clean water and keep your dog from scratching.
What not to do
-
Do not squeeze the tick’s body.
-
Do not apply methylated spirits, oils, or heat.
-
Do not delay removal while you look for chemicals to put on it.
After removal: what to watch
-
Check your dog all over for more ticks, especially around lips, ears, under the collar, between toes, armpits, and groin.
-
Over the next 24–48 hours watch for wobbly back legs, weakness, gagging, vomiting, coughing, change in bark, trouble swallowing, or laboured breathing. These are urgent vet signs.
Prevent future ticks
Daily tick searches help, but prevention is key. Choose a proven tick product that fits your dog’s weight, age, and lifestyle. Dose on time and set phone reminders.
Products we trust
-
NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly chew for tick and flea control when used as directed.
-
Bravecto Chew for Dogs — long-lasting tick and flea control per label; handy if you prefer fewer doses.
-
Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs — monthly chew covering fleas and ticks, with heartworm prevention and intestinal worm control.
Safety checks
-
Use dog-only products on dogs.
-
Match the weight band and minimum age.
-
In mixed cat-and-dog homes, keep cats away from recently treated dogs if labels advise.
FAQ
Should I twist the tick out or burn it off?
No. Grip close to the skin and lift straight up with steady pressure. Do not twist, squeeze, or use heat.
What if the head stays in?
A small fragment may remain like a splinter and usually works its way out. If the skin becomes red, swollen, or your dog seems unwell, see your vet.
When can I bathe my dog after removal?
Bathing is fine, but follow label advice if you apply a spot-on later. Chews are not affected by bathing.
How soon should I start prevention?
Start or continue your chosen product on schedule to help prevent future ticks.
Protect your dog with proven tick prevention and daily checks in risk areas. Our vet-led team, headed by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc, can help you build a simple plan that fits your routine.
