Ticks are small, blood-sucking creatures that can spread diseases to both pets and humans, making them a serious nuisance. Last summer, I had a firsthand experience dealing with them, thanks to my dog being a “tick magnet.” Removing these pests with tweezers was a painstaking task, but with a friend’s support—albeit from a safe distance—I managed.

The first rule of dealing with ticks: “Don’t panic.” Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. After removal, wash the area thoroughly. Remember, it’s best to visit a doctor rather than remove a tick yourself.