I just found a fully embedded tick on my dog's belly. What's the safest way to remove it without leaving any parts behind? Should I be worried about diseases? Any advice would be much appreciated!

Hey there! I know finding a tick on your dog can be a bit unsettling, but you're doing great by wanting to remove it safely. Here's how you can do it: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Try not to twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. If that happens, don’t worry; it's a good idea to contact your vet.

After removing the tick, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. It's important to monitor your pup for signs of any tick-borne diseases over the next few weeks, like lethargy, joint pain, swelling, or fever. These signs would warrant a visit to the vet.

If your dog starts showing any symptoms that concern you or if you suspect more ticks might be present, it's wise to get in touch with your vet. Same goes if your dog isn’t acting quite like themselves. If it gets worse or you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to reach out for additional help.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.