Article: Ticks enjoy tall grass and low shrubs. Some ticks are very small almost flea sizedwhile others are much larger. Ticks are generally black or brown and oval in shape. Like spiders and scorpions, they belong to the group of arthropods called arachnids, and they have eight legs. You will need a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and a jar filled with alcohol. You will also want to have some disinfectant around such as a chlorhexidine solution (Nolvasan) or povidine iodine solution (Betadine) to clean the wound after removing the tick from your pet. If you live in an area where ticks are common, you may also want to get a device designed to remove ticks. These clever instruments looks like a spoon with a notch cut into the side and works great to remove ticks off people and pets. Though a common belief, you cannot actually kill ticks by flushing them down the toilet. The only way you can properly kill them is to put them in alcohol or spray them with flea and tick spray. Removing ticks isn't fun for your dog either. Give him his favorite toy to chew on and a treat or two (along with your love and affection) before you get started. You should check your canine friend for ticks whenever he has been somewhere that is known to have ticks (hiking trails, yards with tall grass, etc.) You should feel for small bumps with your hands and look for dark, circular bumps with your eyes. Begin your search on the top of your dog's back and move down each side towards his chest and belly. Be sure to search in and around his: Legs Between his toes and pads of his feet Under his legs (armpits), belly, chest, and tail On top of, inside, and under the ears Face and on the crown of the head Chin The front of the neck If you have a hard time going through your pet's hair, you might want to enlist the help of a fine-toothed comb to search your dog for ticks. If that doesn't seem to work, you can set a blowdryer on cool and use that to part your dog's hair. Just be aware that some dogs are afraid of hairdryers. You should use these instruments in addition to your hands since feeling the bumps is still the best method.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Know how to identify a tick and its preferred environment. Gather the correct tools before you look for ticks. Make sure your pet is in calm and happy state. Search your dog for ticks. Use a comb if your dog's hair is very thick or curly.