The easiest way to remove ticks is usually by hand. Using forceps, tweezers, or your thumb and first finger protected by a tissue, grasp the tick as close as possible to where its mouthparts insert into the dog's skin.
Then exert a firm but gentle, constant pull. If you've pulled just right and gotten the tick at the optimum time after attachment, the entire tick will detach.
If the mouthparts are left embedded, don't worry. The tick never grows back, the mouthparts fall out naturally, and only rarely does a tick bite become infected.
If you feel you must apply something to the tick, use a small amount of concentrated flea or tick dip or alcohol, and apply it only to the tick, not to the surrounding skin or hair.
Wait a few minutes and then pull the tick off.
Do not come into contact with the tick's body fluids and wash your hands after you remove the tick.
