We’ve had lots of phone calls following coverage on the news about the dogs in Essex which have contracted Babesiosis – the first cases in the UK. Although this disease is potentially very dangerous to dogs, there have only been 4 cases reported in the UK and these were all from a very localised area. There have been no reported cases in the Midlands. The situation is being closely monitored by the government.
The British Veterinary Association is advising owners to check their dogs for ticks after their walks and to remove any ticks completely. It takes some time for attached ticks to transmit disease so ticks removed promptly and correctly pose a very low risk.
The best way to remove ticks which have attached themselves is to use a special tick hook like the one in the photo. We stock these at 387 Vets. Hook the fork between the dog’s skin and the tick’s body and twist to ‘unscrew’ the tick out – do not just pull or the head will remain in the dog’s skin.
Do keep up to date with parasite treatments. Remember, your dog is much more likely to suffer from fox mange or to contract lungworm whilst out and about.
Give us a ring to ask about effective tick prevention treatments for your pet on 01922 411755, or book in to one of our free Vet Nurse-led parasite advice clinics for a review of your pet’s parasite treatment.