Vet talk Vet talk (April 13, 2005)

Q. How do I remove ticks from my dog or cat? A. : Most ticks are easily removed by using a "Tick Spoon." However, to remove the very small ticks, first soak the tick in alcohol. Then grasp the head of the tick with small forceps and pull it straight out. Ticks are excellent at spreading diseases because they discharge saliva and potentially pathogens into the host while feeding. To help reduce tick attachment, I recommend FrontlineR for cats and K9 AdvantixR for dogs.
Dr. Eric Griesshaber, a veterinarian and owner of Portola Valley Veterinary Clinic (portolavalleyvet.com), answers readers' questions. Submit questions to Eric@PortolaValleyVet.com , and say it's for his Vet Talk column in the Almanac. Or call him at 851-7578.
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