Ticks on the Rise: How to Protect Your Pet This Summer

Summer means sunny days, countryside walks, and outdoor adventures with your pets. Unfortunately, warmer temperatures also lead to an increased risk of ticks, potentially dangerous parasites that are becoming more common throughout the UK.

This article explains why tick populations surge during summer, highlights the risks to your pets, and shares practical ways you can protect your furry companions during the warmer months.

Why are Ticks Increasing in the UK?

Ticks thrive in warm, humid conditions, and the UK's increasingly mild summers have provided the perfect environment for these parasites to flourish. As temperatures rise, tick activity peaks, meaning your pets are more likely to encounter them in gardens, parks, woodland areas, or even urban green spaces.

This increase in tick populations also raises the risk of tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease—a serious health threat to pets and humans alike.

How Do Pets Get Ticks?

Ticks typically latch onto your pet when they brush past tall grass, bushes, or woodland foliage. Once attached, ticks feed on your pet's blood, potentially transmitting harmful diseases. 

Dogs are particularly vulnerable, but cats can also be affected, especially if they spend time outdoors.

Recognising the Risks: Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks can carry and transmit several diseases, with Lyme disease being the most common and concerning. Lyme disease symptoms in pets can include:

• Lethargy or fatigue

• Fever

• Swollen joints or limping

• Reduced appetite

• Swollen lymph nodes

If left untreated, tick-borne illnesses can lead to chronic health problems. Early recognition and veterinary treatment are crucial.

Effective Ways to Protect Your Pets from Ticks

Fortunately, there are several effective measures you can take to reduce the risk of ticks affecting your pets this summer:

1. Regular Tick Checks

After outdoor activities, especially walks in grassy or wooded areas, thoroughly inspect your pet’s fur, particularly around the head, ears, neck, paws, and underbelly. Early removal significantly reduces disease transmission risk.

2. Use Veterinary-Approved Tick Treatments

Consult your vet about suitable tick prevention treatments, such as spot-ons, chewable tablets, collars, or sprays. Regular preventative treatments offer the best protection against tick infestations.

3. Maintain Your Garden

Keep lawns trimmed short and clear away debris like leaves and garden waste, as ticks favour long grass and shady, damp areas.

4. Avoid Tick Hotspots

Be cautious when walking in areas known for high tick populations, including wooded areas, heathland, long grass, or bracken. Stick to well-maintained paths whenever possible.

5. Proper Tick Removal

If you find a tick on your pet, remove it promptly using a specially designed tick removal tool, ensuring you remove the entire parasite safely. Avoid squeezing the tick or using tweezers incorrectly, as this could increase disease transmission.

When to See a Vet

If your pet shows symptoms such as fever, lethargy, swollen joints, or unusual behaviour following a tick bite—or if you're worried about incomplete tick removal—contact your vet immediately. Early veterinary care is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.

Protecting Your Pets—and Your Family

Protecting your pets from ticks isn't just essential for their health—it safeguards your family too, as pets can inadvertently bring ticks into the home. 

With proactive measures, regular checks, and appropriate preventive treatments, you can enjoy a worry-free summer with your furry companions.

Concerned about ticks or want to learn more about effective tick prevention for your pets?Get in touch with our team today—we're here to help.

We believe preventing disease is a far better way of helping your pet stay fit, comfortable, happy and healthy. So we’ve created the Vital Pets Club to make sure every pet owner has easy access to the best pet care at an affordable price.