One of our biggest fears for our dogs is discovering the presence of ticks. Whilst there’s a common misconception that ticks on dogs are only a problem in the summer months, warmer weather has seen a rise in ticks all year round.

 

Through the nature of a tick’s blood sucking tendencies, they can transmit a range of infections and diseases including Babesiosis and Lyme Disease, affecting both dogs and their owners. Ticks are most commonly associated with Lyme Disease, an illness that often lies undetected due to symptoms frequently not appearing after the initial bite for up to several weeks.

 

Head Vet, Sean McCormack, of dog food company tails.com says: ‘the sooner a tick can be removed, the less likely it is that you or your dog can get infected by nasty bacteria.’

 

‘To remove a tick effectively, use a tick removal tool (you can get these easily online). This allows you to twist and lift the tick off of the skin by going underneath its biting mouthparts.

 

‘It’s important to make sure you remove the tick properly and get the head out, as just pulling at the tick can often leave the mouthparts embedded in the skin and risk infection. If you are struggling with removing a tick yourself contact your local vet for help’