Cleaning a glue gun

[dj-spider.livejournal.com]

(I checked the memories, and the answer to this question under adhesives seems to have been deleted?)

The tip of my trusty little glue gun is covered in loose bit of fur and thread that seem to glued to it permanently with a thin film of glue.  I tried to clean it off as it got warm, but burned my fingers instead, which makes me think that there's got to be a better way.  I've had it for almost 5 years, and it was only a couple of bucks, but if I replace it, I'd like to have a handle on how to fix this problem in the future.

Tips appreciated!

Thanks!