Ah, spring—the season of blooming flowers, warm breezes, and… ticks. That’s right. These tiny hitchhikers are back.
If you or your kids (or let’s be honest, your dog) end up playing host to one, don’t panic. Our friends at the Tick Research Lab of Pennsylvania have laid out exactly how to submit a tick for testing—and just as importantly, what not to do.
Bonus: Basic testing is FREE.
A huge thank you to the Tick Research Lab for allowing us to share this incredibly helpful guide. Let’s all work together to stay safe, informed, and as tick-free as possible this season.
Spring is here
Springtime means tick time. Activity typically rises starting in March and continues through August, so now is the time to be prepared.
How to Submit a Tick for Testing
- Remove the tick using fine point tweezers.
- Place your tick in a clean zip-locked bag.
- Order testing at ticklab.org/test-my-tick or call (570) 422-7892.
- Include your printed voucher or order number.
- Mail or drop off at 562 Independence Rd., East Stroudsburg, PA.
- Results are available within 72 hours of receipt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not put the tick in tape or sticky substances.
- Do not send in liquids like water, alcohol, or bleach.
- Do not use fragile or non-sealable containers.
- Do not include leaves, tissue, or debris.
- Do not send more than 5 ticks per order.
- Do not mix ticks from different hosts.
- Do not send without an order number or contact info.
Don’t worry if you’ve made one of these mistakes. Your tick can still be tested. These guidelines just help ensure faster and more accurate results.
Stay safe, check often, and here’s to a happy, healthy, tick-aware spring.
