What are Ticks?
Ticks are small 6-legged blood sucking insects, which can spread some nasty blood-borne diseases to our pets.
They attach to the skin, usually when out walking in long grass. It’s important to check your dog after every walk and cats too when they come indoors – and remove any ticks you find, using a tool designed for this, to ensure they come out properly. (These are simple plastic tools, available from our reception, as well as all pets shops, at minimal cost).
Please do call us on 01435 864422 if you need advice on how to use a tick removal tool, or if you think you haven’t removed one properly.
Where are my pets most at risk?
Ticks populate wooded areas, overgrown fields and grassy gardens.
They are particularly active between Spring and Autumn, though vigilance throughout the year is recommended.
Dogs travelling on a pet passport are also at greater risk, as continental Europe has some tick borne illnesses which are not present in the UK.
Booking into one of our travel clinics before you go is a great idea, so that you can be fully briefed on what parasites your pet will need protection from in the area you are travelling to.
What can I do to prevent ticks?
The most important thing you can do as an owner is to stop tick bites before they happen and stay vigilant in recognising when your pet might be at risk.
There are several products available which can kill or repel ticks.
These come as spot-on treatments, tablets or collars, which are all easy to use and could save you pet from contracting a tick borne disease – some of which can affect pets for the rest of their lives.
Please do call us on 01435 864422 if you would like to get a suitable treatment for your pet, or need advice on ticks.
Heathfield Vets – Quality Care With A Friendly Face
