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.

Tick eggs, often reddish-brown and laid in clusters, can be found in your garden. Each tiny egg is a potential future tick, so prompt action is crucial. Wearing gloves, I carefully scooped the eggs into a jar filled with rubbing alcohol to kill them instantly.

Preventive measures are key: “Keep your lawn mowed and bushes trimmed,” and use tick repellents when outdoors. Regularly check your pets, yourself, and your family for ticks after spending time outside.