Tick Season in the UK: How to Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer

As the weather warms up and we enjoy longer days outdoors, it's important for pet owners to be aware of the risks that come with tick season. In the UK, tick activity peaks from March through October, with June to early September being the height of the season. These tiny parasites can pose serious health risks to your furry friends, making awareness and prevention key.

Why Ticks Are a Threat to Pets

Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites commonly found in grassy fields, woodlands, and areas with dense vegetation. While a tick bite might seem minor, ticks can transmit several diseases to pets, including:

• Lyme Disease – Can cause symptoms like fever, lethargy, swollen joints, and appetite loss.
• Babesiosis – Affects red blood cells and can lead to anaemia and other health complications.

Prompt detection and removal of ticks are crucial to reduce the risk of infection.

How to Protect Your Pet During Tick Season

Here are some essential tips to help you safeguard your pet:

• Perform Regular Tick Checks: After walks or outdoor play, inspect your pet thoroughly, especially around the ears, under the collar, between the toes, and under the tail (The Vet).
• Use Vet-Approved Tick Preventatives: Spot-on treatments, collars, or oral medications can provide effective protection against ticks (PDSA).
• Maintain Your Garden: Keep your lawn trimmed and remove leaf litter to discourage tick habitats (Itch Pet).
• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Stick to paths and avoid dense undergrowth when walking your dog during peak tick season.

Tick Season Vet Visit Checklist

An often overlooked but crucial step during tick season is visiting your vet. A seasonal check-up can ensure your pet is well-protected and healthy. Here’s a simple checklist for your next vet appointment:

• ✅ Ask about the most suitable tick prevention treatment for your pet (spot-on, oral, or collars).
• ✅ Discuss your pet’s risk level based on lifestyle and environment.
• ✅ Request a tick removal demonstration if you’re unsure how to do it properly.
• ✅ Check for any early signs of tick-borne diseases.
• ✅ Ensure your pet’s vaccinations and parasite treatments are up to date.

Your vet is your best resource for personalised advice, especially during peak tick months.

For even more convenience, Paw ID Premium members can upload documents related to their pet’s health, like vaccination records or tick treatment history, directly to their profile. You’ll also receive automatic reminders when any documents are about to expire, helping you stay on top of your pet’s health all year round.