And if you crush them you might have more problems afterwards than before 🤮

If you live near forests, fields, or nature, you’re likely familiar with ticks—those tiny arachnids that feed on blood from mammals, birds, and humans. While a single tick bite won’t cause dangerous blood loss, ticks carry serious diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis that can have life-altering consequences if untreated.

**Safe Tick Removal**

If you find a tick attached to your skin, act quickly but carefully. Never pull it off with your fingers—this may leave the head embedded in your skin. Instead, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible, then pull gently in one continuous motion without squeezing or twisting. Squeezing may cause the tick to regurgitate its contents into the wound.

**Proper Disposal**

Don’t simply throw ticks in the trash. For best results, place the tick in a sealed bag or container to prevent future contact, or wrap it tightly in tissue and flush it down the toilet. If you found the tick on a pet, some veterinarians recommend bringing it for identification and assessment, so keeping it in a sealed container is wise.

**Protecting Your Pets**

Check pets regularly for ticks, especially in warmer months, though ticks survive year-round. Search thoroughly around ears, armpits, skin folds, toes, and groin, feeling for small, firm bumps. Keeping pets tick-free helps protect your entire household.

**Warning Signs**

Watch for symptoms after a tick bite: flu-like feelings, joint pain, muscle aches, fever, chills, or fatigue. Some cases present a distinctive red bullseye rash around the bite site, indicating possible Lyme disease.

**Seek Medical Help**

Always consult a doctor if you experience symptoms after a tick bite. Early detection and treatment prevent serious complications. Taking precautions and knowing proper removal techniques are your best defenses against tick-borne illnesses.