Does your pet suffer from ticks in the summer months?

What are ticks?


Ticks are part of a family of ectoparasites (external parasites) which live off the blood of mammals, latching onto the body of a dog, cat or even person and feeding until they are satiated, before disengaging from the skin and dropping away to start the whole process over again.

When the tick is feeding it is annoying and irritating for the dog. Ticks can cause unpleasant skin reactions and lumps that can become infected and sore. Ticks can carry dangerous infectious diseases such as Lyme disease in the UK and ehrlichiosis and babesiosis abroad

Ticks can be tricky to spot so it is important to run your hands through your dog’s coat in the warmer months to check for ticks after walks. They are more frequent in the long grasses, heaths and brackens and tend to attach around the eyes, ears, nose, armpits and chest. 

Can Ticks be prevented? 

Yes, spot on flea treatments often treat for ticks also and should be used regularly as prescribed. ‘Seresto Collars’ are also very effective for those prone to getting ticks and can be purchased from you vet. They last 7-8 months so cover your pet for the majority of the tick season in spring/summer.

 How do I remove the Tick? 

If you find a tick on your dog and are unsure about removing let us know and we will be happy to help you remove it. Your vets will also offer assistance with tick removal.