How do you remove a tick that won't let go?

By Hannah

January 15, 2026
1 MIN READ

If a tick won’t let go, the safest approach is to remove it calmly using a tick hook (also called a tick remover). Tick hooks are designed to slide under the tick without squeezing its body, reducing the chance of infection.

This is what a tick hook looks like! 👇

How to remove a tick with a tick hook:

Choose a hook size that fits the tick.
Place the hook flat against the skin and slide it gently under the tick, positioning it between the skin and the tick’s mouthparts.
Lift the hook slightly and rotate slowly (usually 1–3 turns). The tick will loosen and release on its own.
Once detached, lift the tick slowly away from the skin.
Now dispose of the tick by putting it in a sealed plastic bag and placed in the bin or by flushing it down the toilet,

If you don’t have a tick hook:
Use fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk.

What not to do:
Avoid heat, matches, petroleum jelly, alcohol, oils, or squeezing the tick’s body. These methods can cause the tick to regurgitate bacteria into the skin.

After removal:
Clean the bite area with soap and water or alcohol. Monitor for symptoms such as rash, fever, or fatigue over the next few weeks and seek medical advice if they appear.

Protect your pet from getting ticks with Itch Flea & Tick Treatment for Cats and Itch Flea & Tick Treatment for Dogs. Apply monthly and any ticks that latch on will die and fall off.

Cookies

How do you remove a tick that won't let go?

How to remove a tick with a tick hook: