Touched a tick

[Jen05011978]

Yesterday, I discovered a tick on my dog. I touched the ticks body, since it was still embedded in my dogs neck. I washed my hands after touching the tick and took her to the vet to have it removed.

Am I at risk for any diseases or infection?

[patsy10]

It has to attach itself and feed on your blood to transmit disease.  However, if your dog had a tick you could get one on you too.  I have pulled several off of my scalp this summer.  I just felt a bump and they were attached ticks.

[cindy903]

Good point patsy!

What is the best way to ensure our pets (and ourselves) are pest free?

BTW, I pulled a spider out of my hair yesterday.

[patsy10]

Better  a spider than a tick!  Unless it's a poison one of course.

I spend lots of time in the woods and fields walking my dog.  This is how I get ticks on me.  I started using tick repellant this year with Deet in it.  If I use it I come back tick free.  If I forget I find ticks.  I use Frontline Plus on my dog monthly.  There are several flea and tick control products out there.  My vet recommended this one for tick control.  Ask your vet which one they recommend.

[cindy903]

I have DEET (deep woods something or other) . I will be more diligent about using it.

I have been putting something like Frontline on my little dog. The bigger one is the one that has ticks more often -- don't know why.

thank you!