Dog Tick Remover Sharing Card

Where I live Dog ticks are all around. I have 3 mountains around where I live as well as plenty of grassland… My Labrador Milo absolutely loves to bounce around in tall grass and bushes and has had a few ticks the last time he got one I didn't have any tool with me to remove it… I felt so bad… so I designed this model to fit in you're credit card wallet slots. Also if you see anyone else who has forgotten the removal tool you can snap one of these off and give it to them…. and you simply put the remainder back in your wallet….

Now a few people will say “too much filament used” there is smaller versions out there… yadda yadda yadda… The amount of filament (which isn't a lot in the grad scheme) doesn't bother me if I have something to make sure my dog doesn't get sick. Second of all I did find another one online and I printed like 20 of them so I could hand out… they worked but most fell out of my pockets, I lost them… or my wife binned them thinking they were junk…

Feel free to share photos of you makes along with a picture of your furry friends !

• Layer Height: 
  • 0.12 (can use higher but thinner layer gives sharper bit)
• Material: 
  • PETG advised for rigidity but PLA will work also (my screenshot is PLA)
• First Layer Speed:
  • Print the first Layer SLOWLY. lots of little intricate pieces on the first layer so printing slow is recommended.

A little bit of information about Ticks

Dog ticks can pose a significant threat to our furry friends and can also be a concern for human health. In the United Kingdom, where ticks are prevalent in certain areas, it is crucial to understand the potential risks they pose and the importance of prompt removal. To address this issue, I designed a 3D-printable "credit card" tool, featuring four different tick removal devices. Let's delve into the world of dog ticks and explore the consequences they may cause if not immediately removed.

The Prevalence of Dog Ticks in the United Kingdom: The United Kingdom is home to several species of ticks, with the most common being Ixodes Ricinus, also known as the sheep tick or castor bean tick. These parasites are primarily found in woodland areas, grassy fields, and moorlands, particularly in regions such as the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, and the New Forest. Ticks are active during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, but can also be encountered in milder winter conditions.

Risks Associated with Dog Ticks: Ticks are notorious for transmitting various diseases, both to dogs and humans. If left attached for an extended period, ticks can transmit these diseases through their bites. The most common diseases associated with tick bites in the UK include:

• Lyme Disease: 
  • Caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease can lead to joint pain, fatigue, fever, and, if left untreated, can affect the nervous system, heart, and other organs.
• Babesiosis: 
  • This rare, malaria-like infection caused by Babesia parasites can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, anaemia, and muscle pain.
• Anaplasmosis: 
  • Anaplasia phagocytophilum, a bacterium transmitted by ticks, can cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
• Ehrlichiosis:
  • This bacterial infection, caused by Ehrlichia bacteria, can lead to symptoms like fever, fatigue, muscle pain, and can affect the blood cells and organs if left untreated.

Immediate Tick Removal: 

Swift removal of ticks is crucial to minimize the risk of disease transmission. The 3D-printable "credit card" tool you have designed, featuring different tick removal devices, can be an excellent aid in this process. When removing a tick, it is essential to follow these steps:

1. Using the tick removal tool, grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.
2. Applying steady, gentle pressure, pull the tick upward with a steady motion. Do not twist or jerk the tick.
3. Once the tick is removed, clean the area with antiseptic and wash your hands thoroughly.
4. Ensure the tick is disposed of safely, preferably by placing it in a sealed bag or container.

Conclusion: 

Dog ticks in the United Kingdom can cause serious health issues if not promptly removed. The prevalence of diseases such as Lyme disease, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis highlights the importance of taking preventive measures and removing ticks immediately. The 3D-printable tick removal tool I have designed offers a convenient and efficient solution to assist in the safe removal of ticks. Remember, regular checks for ticks and swift removal are essential for the well-being of both our four-legged companions and ourselves. Stay vigilant and protect against these tiny but potentially dangerous pests.