ANOTHER tick question

[dobermom]

Kobie has a spot on the inside of his hind leg that looks odd.
Its purple, with a black center. I cant really tell if its a tick.

Do tick burrow all the way under the skin? I have always caught them when they are not latched on.

I cant get a good look, Kobie keeps kicking me!

[fairlight]

Oh please...I hope it's not a warble!! Actually I think ticks can bury themselves that far Dobermom....but let's hear what the rest of the forum says.

[Luvmyjob]

No, only the head burrows. They swell (the body) as they collect blood(ewww)you should be able to see legs.

[dobermom]

I dont think I see legs, must be a scab. Perhaps another gift from Meka.

Also, would it be swelled, because this is not.

[Luvmyjob]

If the tick is attached, but not been there long, the legs would be very visible. Sound like maybe a blood blister from a pinch, eh hmm.....Oh Clfffooorrrdd!!!!

[dobermom]

Originally Posted by Luvmyjob

If the tick is attached, but not been there long, the legs would be very visible. Sound like maybe a blood blister from a pinch, eh hmm.....Oh Clfffooorrrdd!!!!

No...never Clifford! Has to be the Meka Monster!

[EmmaGirl]

OK guys...if this is a tick...what's the best way to remove it? I'm careful not to let mine romp in the woods but should a tick appear...what to do?

[dobermom]

Tweezers have worked in the past for me.The ones I have pulled off have been hardly latched on.

[doglady]

Here is a step-by-step way to remove a tick.

The following is the recommended procedure:

• Use blunt curved tweezers or a thread.
• Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with a steady, even pressure.
• Do not twist or jerk the tick because this may cause the mouth parts to detach and remain in the skin.
• You should pull firmly enough to lift up the skin.
• Hold this tension for 3 to 4 minutes and the tick will back out.
• DO NOT squeeze, crush, or puncture the body of the tick because its fluids may contain bacteria.
• Immediately dispose of the tick. If you have any concerns, put the tick in a plastic bag and freeze it. If you get sick you can take the dead tick with you when you see your provider.
• Immediately wash your hands and the affected area with soap and water.