What is the best way to remove a tick from my horse?
Removing a tick from a horse can be tricky — particularly for the squeamish. This disease-carrying insect has a strong jaw that anchors it to its host; thus, during removal it’s easy to leave the tick’s head embedded in the skin, inviting infection. Several commercial tick-removal devices are available, but a simple technique recommended by the American Lyme Disease Foundation, Inc. also works: Using splinter forceps or tweezers, grasp the tick as closely to the skin as possible and gently pull it straight out. Don’t worry if the ticks’ mouthparts are left in the flesh; they should not cause a problem. After removing the insect, apply an antiseptic to the site. This article first appeared in the August 1996 issue of EQUUS magazine. Ticks must be attached 24 hours before they can transmit Lymes disease. Removing a tick When you find a tick, use tweezers to pick up the body and pull s-l-o-w-l-y and gently, and the mouthparts will release. You should see a small crator in your dog’s skin
