24/03/2025
Taking place in March each year, is promoted to raise awareness of the transmission of ticks and the dangers they can bring. To mark day one of Tick Bite Prevention Week we have written the following key information on ticks in the UK and will continue to share some interesting tick facts throughout the week!
Ticks are spider looking parasites with large bodies that feed on the blood of the human or animal that they attach to. Ticks can attach anywhere on the body but are most found on thin skinned, non-hairy areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal, and perineal regions.
When first attached, the body is quite small but as they feed, they increase in size. Ticks are commonly found in woodland areas, or sometimes in urban grassy areas, sitting tight on grass or leaves waiting for their host to brush past for them to attach to using their mouth.
There are several types of ticks in the world but only a small number can be found in the UK. Regardless of the type of tick, they can all spread tick borne disease, viruses and bacteria by transmitting infected saliva whilst feeding from their host. Although they can spread several diseases, the disease differs depending on the region of the world in which they are found.
In the UK, ticks are most known to spread Lyme disease which in humans typically presents as a ‘bullseye’ circular rash around the bite site alongside flu like symptoms which if left untreated can affect many tissues and the nervous system. Dogs generally present with lameness, swollen joints, fever, lethargy and innapetence however it is found that only 5-10% of affected dogs will show symptoms. If left untreated in dogs, Lyme disease can damage the heart, nervous system and kidneys. Although dogs and humans are known to be affected, it is rarely diagnosed in cats.
Check out our next post for part 2 of this blog!
A veterinary practice with crazy, mad BUT friendly and professional staff who will care for your pet
