As the weather warms up and we all start spending more time outdoors, there’s one small but important thing every pet owner needs to be aware of — ticks.
Across East Lothian and the wider UK, tick activity increases through spring and summer. With more time spent in long grass, woodland, and coastal paths, our dogs are far more likely to pick them up during walks.
At Doggy Dawdles East Lothian, checking for ticks becomes part of the routine during this time of year. They might be small, but they can cause real discomfort and, in some cases, more serious health issues if left untreated.
The good news is that with a bit of awareness and the right approach, ticks can be managed and prevented.
What Are Ticks and Where Do They Come From?
Ticks are small parasitic creatures that attach themselves to animals to feed on blood. They’re most commonly found in:
- Long grass
- Woodland areas
- Heathland
- Parks and fields
- Coastal paths with dense vegetation
They don’t jump or fly. Instead, they wait on grass or plants and latch on as a dog or cat brushes past.
Once attached, they can stay in place for several days if not noticed.
Why Ticks Are a Problem for Pets
Not every tick bite leads to illness, but they’re still something to take seriously.
Ticks can cause:
- Local irritation and swelling
- Infection at the bite site
- Discomfort or itching
- Transmission of diseases in some cases
In the UK, one of the main concerns is Lyme disease, which can affect both dogs and humans.
While not extremely common, it’s something worth being aware of, especially for dogs who regularly walk in rural or grassy areas.
Common Signs Your Pet Has a Tick
Ticks can be surprisingly easy to miss, especially in thick fur.
What to look for:
- A small lump on the skin
- A dark, round shape attached to the skin
- Slight swelling or redness
- Your dog licking or scratching a specific area
Ticks are often found around:
- Ears
- Neck
- Under the collar
- Between toes
- Under legs
- Around the face
Regular checking is key, particularly after walks in higher-risk areas.
How to Check Your Dog for Ticks
After walks, especially in spring and summer, it’s a good habit to do a quick check.
Run your hands over your dog’s body and feel for:
- Small bumps
- Unusual lumps
- Anything attached to the skin
Take a moment to check hidden areas like:
- Under the collar
- Inside ears
- Between toes
- Around the groin and armpits
It only takes a minute or two but can make a big difference.
How to Safely Remove a Tick
If you find a tick, it’s important to remove it properly.
Best method:
Use a tick removal tool, which is inexpensive and widely available.
Steps:
- Slide the tool under the tick as close to the skin as possible
- Twist gently in one direction
- Pull slowly until the tick releases
- Dispose of it safely
- Clean the area with pet-safe antiseptic
Avoid:
- Pulling straight out
- Using tweezers incorrectly
- Squeezing the tick
- Using oils or burning methods
Improper removal can leave parts of the tick behind or increase the risk of infection.
Tick-Borne Diseases in the UK
Although less common than in some other countries, ticks in the UK can carry diseases.
Lyme disease is the main concern
Symptoms in dogs may include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Lameness or stiffness
- Swollen joints
Symptoms don’t always appear immediately, so it’s important to monitor your dog after a tick bite.
If you notice anything unusual, always contact your vet.
How to Prevent Ticks on Your Pet
Prevention is always better than treatment.
1. Use vet-recommended treatments
Speak to your vet about:
- Spot-on treatments
- Tick collars
- Oral medications
These can significantly reduce the risk of ticks attaching.
2. Stick to clear paths where possible
Avoid letting dogs run through dense, long grass where ticks are more likely to be waiting.
This doesn’t mean avoiding nature altogether, just being mindful of higher-risk areas.
3. Regular grooming and coat checks
Brushing your dog regularly helps you spot ticks early before they attach properly.
4. Keep your garden tidy
If your dog spends time in the garden:
- Keep grass short
- Remove leaf piles
- Reduce damp, shaded areas
This makes the environment less appealing to ticks.
5. Check after every walk
This is one of the simplest and most effective prevention steps.
It quickly becomes second nature during tick season.
What About Cats and Ticks?
Cats can also pick up ticks, especially if they roam outdoors.
They often attach around:
- Head and neck
- Ears
- Face
Because cats groom themselves so frequently, ticks may be harder to spot.
Regular checks and flea/tick prevention are just as important for cats.
When to Contact Your Vet
You should seek veterinary advice if:
- You’re unsure how to remove a tick
- The tick breaks during removal
- The bite area becomes swollen or infected
- Your pet shows signs of illness
- There are multiple ticks present
It’s always better to be cautious.
Ticks and Dog Walking in East Lothian
With so many beautiful walking routes across East Lothian, from woodland paths to coastal trails, dogs are naturally more exposed to ticks during warmer months.
At Doggy Dawdles, tick awareness is part of everyday care during spring and summer.
That means:
- Choosing routes thoughtfully
- Being aware of high-risk areas
- Noticing changes in behaviour
- Encouraging owners to check their dogs after walks
It’s all part of keeping dogs safe, comfortable, and happy outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Ticks are a normal part of life for dogs who enjoy the outdoors, but they don’t have to be a major worry.
With:
- Regular checks
- Proper removal
- Preventative treatment
- Awareness of symptoms
You can significantly reduce the risks.
A quick check after a walk is often all it takes to stay on top of things.
And as always, if something doesn’t seem quite right, it’s worth listening to that instinct and getting it checked.
Want peace of mind while your dog enjoys the outdoors?
At Doggy Dawdles East Lothian, every walk is carried out with care, awareness, and your dog’s wellbeing in mind.
This blog is part of a blog circle with other Pet Service Providers, both in the UK and abroad – our shared blog this month is HERE
Sign up for Newsletters which include relevant doggy info and important updates from Doggy Dawdles.
No responses yet