When I discovered the fully engorged tick on Rhi's ear last year I called Jim, the vet I worked with, for his suggestions. He said to place the tick key around the tick and quickly, but gently, wipe the tick with alcohol and then pull straight out. He cautioned me that I had to pull immediately after the alcohol so that the tick only loosen's it's grip but doesn't regurgitate. Then I cleaned the area with betadine and put antibiotic ointment on. He told me to place the tick into a container with rubbing alcohol and have it checked to make sure what kind of tick it is.
For ticks not engorged, just use the key but always pull straight out - no twisting. Since Rhi's was a deer tick we are suppose to do another test on her in May to ensure there is no Lyme present. He also told me to check for more ticks on her as they often come in pairs. I have to tell you, this is the first engorged tick I have ever had on a dog and it was one of the grossest things I have ever had to deal with. Considering I worked in clinic with some pretty awful injuries that came in, that is really saying something!
For ticks not engorged, just use the key but always pull straight out - no twisting. Since Rhi's was a deer tick we are suppose to do another test on her in May to ensure there is no Lyme present. He also told me to check for more ticks on her as they often come in pairs. I have to tell you, this is the first engorged tick I have ever had on a dog and it was one of the grossest things I have ever had to deal with. Considering I worked in clinic with some pretty awful injuries that came in, that is really saying something!
I screamed and made DH get it. I know it had to be on her. Our vet just said to watch her for any symptoms for illness but so far she has been fine 3 tics later though.