As spring brings warmer weather and the allure of outdoor adventures, pet owners are urged to remain vigilant against the threat of tick bites, which can lead to serious health issues for animals and humans.
Dr. Hannah Godfrey, a veterinarian at Petsure, highlights the importance of recognizing ticks and taking preventive measures. She explains, “Ticks bury their mouthparts deep into the skin while they feed, then drop off when they’re full. When they’re done feeding, they become a dark grey/brown colour and are much larger in size.”
Ticks are most commonly found in woodland and grassland areas, where they thrive during the spring and summer months. However, they can pose a significant risk to pets and humans alike, as they may carry harmful bacteria and parasites such as babesiosis and Lyme disease.
Dr Godfrey emphasizes the dangers associated with tick-borne diseases, stating, “Babesiosis causes damage to the red blood cells and can lead to severe anaemia and even organ failure. Lyme disease, another common tick-borne illness, can result in kidney failure in dogs.
Recognizing the signs of tick-borne diseases is crucial for early detection and treatment. Symptoms may include a lack of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and, in severe cases, paralysis. Dr Godfrey advises pet owners to conduct thorough tick checks after outdoor activities and to seek veterinary care if any unusual symptoms arise.
To protect pets from ticks, Dr. Godfrey offers the following tips:
- Check pets after walks: Conduct a tick check by running your hands over your pet’s body, paying close attention to areas such as the head, ears, belly, and armpits.
- Use tick control products: Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on tick prevention products such as collars, sprays, and spot-on treatments.
- Avoid using tick control intended for other animals: Ensure that tick treatments are specifically formulated for your pet’s species, as products intended for cats may be harmful to dogs, and vice versa.
- Maintain a tidy garden: Keep grass and vegetation in your garden trimmed to reduce the risk of ticks lurking in the environment.
Ticks may be small in size, but their potential impact on pet health should not be underestimated. By staying vigilant and taking preventive measures, pet owners can help safeguard their furry companions against the threat of tick-borne diseases during outdoor adventures.
