Too Hot to Handle? Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Summer Heat

Warm weather might seem like the perfect excuse for long walks and garden play, but when the temperature rises it can be risky for our pets, especially dogs and cats who can’t cool down like we do. Here’s how to help them stay safe, happy and healthy in the heat.

Why heat is harder on pets

Unlike humans, dogs and cats don’t sweat to regulate their body temperature. Dogs mainly rely on panting while cats prefer to stay still in cool spots. That means hot weather can quickly become dangerous, especially for flat-faced pets like pugs, bulldogs and Persians, as well as older animals, young kittens or puppies, overweight pets and thick-coated breeds. Even mild temperatures can cause issues for them.

What temperature is safe for walkies

As a general rule, under 19°C is fine for most dogs. Between 20 and 23°C you’ll want to take extra care, especially with more vulnerable breeds. Anything 24°C and above is best avoided. For cats, limit outdoor time during the hottest part of the day and make sure there is always a cool shaded space available.

Pavement check: the five-second rule

If you can’t comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Burnt pads are painful and may need vet treatment.

When should you walk your dog?

Stick to early mornings or late evenings when the sun is lower and the ground is cooler. Midday walks can quickly lead to overheating and are best avoided completely.

Too warm to walk? Try these instead

If it’s too hot to head out, you can still keep your pet active and entertained:

Puzzle feeders or lick mats to keep their mind busy
Shady sniff sessions in the garden
Frozen treats made with water or broth
Cooling mats or shallow paddling if your pet enjoys water

Mental stimulation can be just as effective as physical exercise.

Fleas and ticks love summer too

Warm weather is ideal for parasites like fleas and ticks. They’re more active and often picked up after time outside, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Keeping your pet protected with regular treatment is essential throughout summer. VetBox makes it easy by delivering it straight to your door each month so you never miss a dose.

Heatstroke: what to watch for

Act fast if you notice any of these signs:

Excessive panting or drooling
Bright red gums or tongue
Vomiting, lethargy or wobbliness
Collapse

Heatstroke is an emergency, so contact your vet immediately.

Quick recap

Keep walks to cooler times of day, avoid hot pavements, offer plenty of shade and water, and stay on top of parasite protection. With a bit of planning, your pets can enjoy the summer safely and comfortably.

Springtime Sniffs and Squirrel Watch, The Spring Invasion Begins

Spring is in full swing, and if your pet’s nose has been glued to the grass, the window, or your gardening shoes, you’re not alone. Warmer weather brings a whole world of new sights, smells, and sneaky little things for them to investigate. Whether you’re living with a curious cat or a joyful jumper of a dog, there’s a lot going on this season (and not all of it visible to the human eye).

What are they sniffing for?
Spring awakens nature, and with it, all the fascinating scents that come with freshly turned soil, blooming flowers, wildlife, and, yes, the odd biscuit crumb someone might have dropped outside. Pets are naturally drawn to all these new smells, whether it’s through the garden, under the hedge, or from a comfy perch in the window.

The return of the wildlife channel
With the sun making more regular appearances, the world beyond the window is suddenly full of movement again. Birds, bees, squirrels, and other creatures are back to entertain, confuse, or provoke a bit of barking (or chirping back). This is prime squirrel-chasing and pigeon-watching season.

Rolling, rubbing, and everything in between
Ever wonder why your pet suddenly drops to roll around on the lawn, or your doormat? Part of it is play, part of it’s scent marking, and part of it is just because they can. Spring encourages lots of this behaviour, so don’t be surprised if your pet comes in looking slightly more “nature-coloured” than before.

What to keep in mind
With all this new exploration, it’s a good time for a little pet-parent prep:

Flea and tick protection: With the warm weather, fleas and ticks become more active. Make sure your pet is up to date.
Watch those paws: After winter, gardens and parks may be full of sharp sticks, prickly plants, or mulch that’s not pet-friendly.
Spring cleaning caution: Keep pets away from cleaning products, freshly planted areas, or fertilisers – they’re curious, but not always cautious.

So what’s the plan?
Let your pet enjoy the season! Whether that’s through more walks, open window sunbathing, or supervised garden time, spring brings enrichment, entertainment, and a whole lot of good vibes. Just keep a little extra eye on them – and maybe a towel by the door.

Pet Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction About Your Cats and Dogs

We’ve all heard them – those age-old sayings and beliefs about our furry friends that get passed down through generations. But how many of these popular pet myths are actually true? Let’s set the record straight on some of the most common misconceptions about cats and dogs.

Myth #1: “A Dog’s Mouth is Cleaner Than a Human’s”

Despite what you might have heard, this isn’t true! Dogs’ mouths contain their own unique set of bacteria, different from humans but certainly not cleaner. They explore the world with their mouths and lick various things throughout the day, so it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene for your canine companion.

Myth #2: “Cats Always Land on Their Feet”

While cats do have an impressive righting reflex that helps them orient themselves during a fall, they don’t always land on their feet. Cats can and do get injured from falls, which is why it’s crucial to secure windows and high spaces in your home to prevent accidents.

Myth #3: “You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks”

Age is just a number! Older dogs are absolutely capable of learning new commands and behaviors. In fact, their maturity and attention span can sometimes make them even better students than puppies. It’s never too late to start training your four-legged friend.

Myth #4: “Cats Purr Only When They’re Happy”

While purring often indicates contentment, cats also purr when they’re stressed, in pain, or even while giving birth. It’s believed that purring can be self-soothing and might even have healing properties due to its specific frequency.

Myth #5: “Dogs See in Black and White”

Dogs actually can see colors, just not as vividly as humans do. They see primarily in blues and yellows, with difficulty distinguishing between red and green. Their vision is optimized for detecting movement and seeing well in dim light.

Myth #6: “Indoor Cats Don’t Need Vaccinations”

Even if your cat never ventures outdoors, they still need proper vaccinations. Viruses can be carried indoors on shoes, clothing, or other pets, making protection essential for all cats regardless of their lifestyle.

Myth #7: “A Wagging Tail Always Means a Happy Dog”

Tail wagging is simply a form of communication that can express various emotions. While it often indicates happiness, it can also signal anxiety, aggression, or nervous energy. It’s important to read your dog’s overall body language, not just their tail.

Myth #8: “Milk is Good for Cats”

Surprisingly, most adult cats are actually lactose intolerant! While they might love the taste of milk, it can cause digestive issues. Water is the best drink for your feline friend.

Myth #9: “Dogs Feel Guilty When They’ve Done Something Wrong”

That guilty look isn’t what you think! Dogs react to their owners’ disappointed or angry tone and body language rather than feeling actual guilt about their actions. The “guilty look” is more likely a submissive response to your reaction.

Myth #10: “Cats Are Completely Independent and Don’t Need Much Attention”

While cats might be more independent than dogs, they still need regular interaction, playtime, and affection. Many cats develop behavioral issues when left alone for too long without proper attention and enrichment.

Understanding the truth behind these common myths helps us become better pet parents and provide the best care for our furry family members. Remember, when in doubt about any aspect of pet care, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for professional advice.

Have you heard any other pet myths that need debunking? Share them with us in the comments below!

Spring into Fun: A Pet Owner’s Guide to the Season of Sunshine (and Muddy Paws)

Spring is finally here! The days are getting longer, the flowers are blooming, and the sun is making a glorious comeback. If you share your home with a dog or cat, you already know that spring time means one thing: absolute chaos.

Between muddy paw prints, shedding fur, and pets suddenly thinking they’re professional outdoor explorers, there’s a lot to love (and clean up) this season.

Dog and cat owners, brace yourselves – shedding season is in full swing. Your pet’s winter coat is officially on its way out, which means your furniture, clothes, and probably your food will be covered in a fine layer of fluff. Frequent brushing can help keep the fur tornado under control, and a good vacuum is your best friend right now.

Spring time walks are magical. The birds are singing, the flowers are blooming, and your dog is determined to sniff every single blade of grass in the park. But with great outdoor fun comes great responsibility – keep an eye out for seasonal hazards like ticks, fleas, and toxic plants. And if you’ve got a cat who loves a little outdoor time, now is the perfect season to enrich their experience with supervised garden adventures or a cosy sunbathing spot by the window

Spring showers bring May flowers – and also bring a whole lot of mud. If your dog sees a puddle, there’s a 99% chance they’re going to charge through it like a tiny four-legged tornado. Keep some towels by the door, and maybe accept that your floors will never be clean again until summer.

It’s the perfect time for a deep clean, but don’t forget to include your pet’s belongings. Wash their bedding, sanitise their toys, and check their collars and leashes for wear and tear. And if you’re decluttering, don’t be surprised if your cat finds new joy in every empty box and bag you try to get rid of.

After months of chilly weather, both you and your pet are probably ready for more activity. Whether it’s longer dog walks, interactive games for your indoor cat, or even a bit of agility training in the back garden, spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter laziness and have some fun together.

Spring is all about fresh starts and new adventures, and who better to enjoy it with than your four-legged best friend? So grab that lint roller, stock up on treats, and get ready for a season full of sunshine, snuggles, and just a little bit of mess.

We hope that you have a glorious spring!

What Our Pets REALLY Do When We’re Not Home

Ever wondered what your furry friend gets up to while you’re out? Sure, we’d like to think they’re sleeping peacefully, patiently awaiting our return. But security cameras and social media have exposed their secret double lives, and it’s time to spill the biscuits on what’s really happening behind closed doors!

The Secret Society of Pets

9:00 AM: The humans leave for work, and Operation Party Time begins. According to our extensive “research” (okay, we’ve watched too many pet videos), here’s what really goes down:

The cats immediately call an emergency meeting on the highest kitchen counter (you know, the one they’re “not allowed” on)
Dogs take their positions as Security Chiefs, barking important updates about squirrels
The neighborhood watch begins from the prime window spots, with running commentary on passing birds

10:30 AM: Mid-Morning Activities:

Cats begin their daily furniture rearrangement workshop
Dogs practice their “didn’t steal anything” innocent faces in the mirrors
The Great Treat Hunt commences in all kitchen cupboards
Emergency meeting called about suspicious pigeon activity outside

12:00 PM: Lunch Break

Coordinated raid on any food left within reach
Cats practice their “we’re starving” performance for dinner
Dogs hold meditation sessions by the treat cupboard (manifesting snacks)
Quick power nap on the humans’ pillows (for maximum fur distribution)

2:00 PM: Afternoon Entertainment

Living room zoomies championship begins
Cats host masterclass: “Advanced Keyboard Walking for Zoom Calls”
Dogs rehearse their “The Postman is Coming” opera
Synchronised sofa sleeping practice

4:30 PM: The Pre-Human Preparation

Code Red: Clean-up committee activated
Evidence disposal team begins work
Pets return to their “day spots”
Final rehearsal of “we’ve been sleeping ALL day” poses

5:00 PM: Operation Normal

Humans return – activate innocent faces
Dogs deploy excessive excitement protocol
Cats maintain strategic indifference
All pets pretend they definitely haven’t moved since morning

So What Can We Learn From This?

While we’re out earning money for treats, our pets are living their best secret lives. They’re not just our furry companions; they’re acrobats, architects of chaos, and expert manipulators – and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Remember: Next time you leave the house, know that your pet isn’t just napping – they’re probably hosting the neighborhood’s hottest party or attending their secret pet society meeting. Just don’t tell them we know their secrets!

Stay Safe: Caring for Pets in the Dark

As the nights draw in and the dark settles earlier this winter, ensuring the safety of our beloved pets becomes a top priority. Whether you’re walking your dog on a winter evening or letting your cat roam the garden at night, it’s crucial to take precautions to keep them visible and out of harm’s way. Here are some practical tips for safeguarding your furry friends after dark.

1. Invest in Reflective Gear

One of the easiest ways to ensure your pet is visible is by equipping them with reflective accessories. A reflective collar or harness can catch the light from car headlights, making your pet easier to spot in low visibility. For dogs, consider reflective leads as well, so drivers and cyclists can see both of you.

2. Use LED Lights

LED collars, tags, and clip-on lights are brilliant for keeping your pet visible in the dark. These are particularly effective for dogs during evening walks. Choose a rechargeable option to save on batteries and reduce waste. For cats, lightweight LED collars are an excellent choice, ensuring they can be seen without causing discomfort.

3. Stick to Well-Lit Areas

When walking your dog, choose routes that are well-lit and familiar. This not only helps you keep an eye on your pet but also reduces the risk of trips, falls, or unexpected encounters with hazards like potholes. For cats that go outside, consider installing outdoor lighting in your garden to make it easier for both of you to navigate the space.

4. Use High-Visibility Clothing

High-visibility jackets aren’t just for humans. Many pet shops stock dog coats with reflective strips or bright colours designed to help your pooch stand out in dim light. These are particularly helpful for smaller breeds that might be harder to spot.

5. Microchip and Tag Your Pets

Accidents can happen, and if your pet becomes lost in the dark, proper identification is essential. Ensure your pet is microchipped, and double-check that your contact details are up-to-date with the chip database. Additionally, attach an ID tag to their collar with your phone number clearly visible.

6. Train Recall and Commands

For dog owners, having a strong recall is vital, especially in low-visibility conditions. Practice commands like “come” or “stay” regularly in safe environments. For cats, encouraging them to respond to specific sounds, such as a whistle or the shake of a treat box, can help you locate them quickly.

7. Be Mindful of Traffic

Cats and dogs can be unpredictable, and the dark makes it harder for drivers to see them. For cats, keeping them indoors during peak traffic hours can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. If you’re walking your dog near busy roads, ensure they’re on a short lead to keep them under control.

8. Avoid Dark Collars

While black or dark-coloured collars might look stylish, they offer little to no visibility at night. Opt for bright colours or reflective materials to ensure your pet stands out in low light. This is especially important for cats, who might blend into the shadows.

9. Carry a Torch

When walking your dog, a handheld torch or head torch can be invaluable for spotting potential hazards and making yourself visible to others. For cat owners, a small torch can help you locate them in the garden or nearby hedges if they’re out exploring.

10. Plan Ahead

Finally, plan your pet’s activities around the shorter daylight hours where possible. For instance, walk your dog earlier in the afternoon before it gets dark, or give your cat supervised outdoor time during the day. Reducing the time they spend outdoors at night can minimise risks.

Keeping your pets safe in the dark doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right gear, a bit of preparation, and some simple safety measures, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your furry companions are protected. By staying proactive, you’ll ensure that those evening strolls and adventures remain enjoyable for both you and your pets.

Stay safe, and give your pets an extra cuddle tonight!

Celebrating the Festive Season with Your Pets

As the festive season approaches, many of us are busy decorating our homes, planning lavish feasts, and preparing for gatherings with our family and friends. Whilst we enjoy the festivities, it’s important to remember our furry companions. Here’s some guidance on preparing your home for your pets and keeping hazards at bay.

Foods to Avoid

The festive season is filled with delicious treats, but many foods can be harmful to cats and dogs. Be vigilant and keep the following items out of reach:

Chocolate: Chocolate can be poisonous to both dogs and cats. Even a small amount can lead to toxicity.

Grapes and Raisins: Found in many traditional festive dishes like Christmas pudding and mince pies, these can cause kidney failure in dogs and possibly even cats.

Onions and Garlic: Ingredients like stuffing often contain onions and garlic, which can damage your pet’s red blood cells and lead to anaemia.

Alcohol: A festive tipple may be tempting for curious pets, but alcohol is highly toxic. Ensure drinks are left out of their reach.

Nuts: Particularly macadamia nuts, can cause weakness, vomiting, and even neurological issues.

Cooked Bones: While it might seem natural to offer bones to pets, cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries.

Keeping Your Pets Calm

With the influx of guests, changes in routine, and new decorations, pets can become anxious. Here are some top tips to keep them settled:

Safe Space: Create a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat from the hustle and bustle. Include familiar items such as their bed, blanket and favourite toys.

Routine Maintenance: Try to keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible. Keeping your routine can help reduce anxiety in pets.

Introduce Guests Slowly: Allow your pet to meet new people gradually. Provide treats for calm introductions, ensuring your pet sees guests as positive additions.

Music and Aromatherapy: Consider playing calming music or using pet-friendly aromatherapy diffusers to soothe skittish pets.

Decorations and Safety

The holidays aren’t complete without decorations, but they pose several hazards:

Electrical Cords: Keep them secured and out of reach to prevent chewing, which can lead to shocks or fires.

Tinsel and Baubles: Though pretty, tinsel and breakable ornaments can be dangerous if ingested or chewed into sharp pieces.

Pine Needles and Christmas Trees: Ensure your tree is stable. Ingesting pine needles can irritate a pet’s mouth and stomach. Sweep up fallen needles promptly.

Incorporate these precautions into your festive preparations to ensure a safe and joyous holiday for both you and your furry friends. With the right planning, you can maintain peace of mind and truly enjoy the season with your beloved pets by your side!

Keeping Your Furry Friends Safe on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night can be a magical experience filled with fireworks, warmth, and celebration. However, it can also be a source of stress and danger for our pets. As we prepare to enjoy the fireworks, it’s essential to take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our pets. Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe during Bonfire Night.

1. Create a Safe Space

Pets often feel anxious during loud events. Designate a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your pet can retreat. This space should be away from windows and doors to minimise noise and light from fireworks. Consider providing their favourite blanket, toys, and some calming music to help soothe them.

2. Keep Them Indoors

On Bonfire Night, it’s best to keep your pets indoors. Even if they usually enjoy outdoor time, the unpredictable sounds and sights of fireworks can cause them to panic. Close the windows and curtains to reduce noise and visual stimulation.

3. Identification and Microchipping

Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information. If they happen to escape during the chaos, this can help reunite you quickly. Additionally, check your pet’s microchip data is up to date so that they can be traced back to you.

4. Exercise Before the Festivities

Take your dog for a long walk earlier in the day to burn off some energy. A tired pet is more likely to relax when the fireworks start. Make sure to do this well before the noise begins to avoid any anxiety leading up to the event.

5. Stay Calm Yourself

Pets often pick up on our emotions. If you remain calm and relaxed, it can help your pet feel more secure. Reassure them with gentle petting or soothing words, but avoid overly coddling them, which might reinforce anxious behaviour.

6. Use Calming Products

There are various calming products available, from anxiety wraps and calming collars to herbal remedies. Talk to your veterinarian about what might be suitable for your pet, especially if they have a history of anxiety during loud noises.

7. Monitor Their Behavior

Think back to how your pet reacted during the fireworks in previous years. If they have shown signs of extreme distress, consult your veterinarian for advice on managing their anxiety. In some cases, they might recommend medication to help your pet cope.

8. Plan for Emergencies

In case of an emergency, have a plan in place. Know the location of the nearest veterinary clinic and have a list of emergency contacts handy. If your pet does escape, spread the word to neighbours and post on local social media groups to increase your chances of finding them.

Bonfire Night can be a fun occasion, but it’s crucial to prioritise the safety and comfort of our pets. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your furry friends stay safe, calm, and happy. With a little preparation, you can make it a pleasant experience for everyone in the family—two-legged and four-legged alike!

Protecting Your Pets Year Round

Why Flea and Tick Prevention for Your Cats and Dogs Matters All Year Round – Even in Autumn

As we enter autumn, with the cooler weather settling in and the long summer days behind us, it’s tempting to think that the risk of fleas and ticks is fading away. After all, summer is the peak season for these pests, right? While it’s true that fleas and ticks thrive in the warmer months, they don’t simply disappear in autumn and winter. In fact, maintaining a year-round flea and tick prevention routine is essential for the ongoing health and well-being of your cats and dogs.

Here’s why keeping up with flea and tick prevention throughout the year is crucial—even as the seasons change.

Fleas Don’t Disappear in Cooler Weather

Fleas love warmth, but they’re surprisingly resilient and adaptable. As the temperatures drop outdoors, your home becomes the perfect environment for fleas to survive and reproduce. Even if your pets spend less time outside, fleas can still make their way inside via carpets, bedding, and other soft furnishings, where they continue to multiply.

Central heating systems create ideal conditions for fleas to thrive indoors. With a warm, consistent environment, fleas can remain active year-round in your home. Skipping your pets’ preventative treatments during autumn and winter can lead to infestations that can be hard to eradicate, causing discomfort and potential health issues for your pets.

Tick Activity Doesn’t End with Summer

Ticks are often associated with the warmer months, but many species remain active well into the cooler autumn months, and some ticks can even survive winter. In certain regions of the UK, ticks are a threat year-round, particularly in areas with long grass, woodlands, or dense shrubbery. Ticks are hardy parasites and can latch onto your pets even when the weather cools down.

Even in autumn, if your pets enjoy outdoor adventures, regular walks, or visits to rural areas, they remain at risk of coming into contact with ticks. Year-round tick prevention ensures your pets are protected, no matter what the season.

The Health Risks Fleas and Ticks Pose Year-Round

While fleas and ticks are most active in warmer months, they can cause health issues for pets and humans any time of year. Here are the risks you’re protecting your pets from by maintaining a year-round flea and tick prevention routine:

Skin Irritation and Allergies: Flea bites can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and skin infections in pets. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is a condition where pets develop a hypersensitivity to flea saliva, leading to painful skin issues.
Anemia: In severe cases, especially among puppies, kittens, or elderly pets, heavy flea infestations can cause anemia, leading to weakness, lethargy, and in extreme cases, death.
Disease Transmission: Fleas and ticks can transmit dangerous diseases. Fleas are carriers of tapeworms, while ticks can spread Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis, all of which can lead to serious health problems for your pet.
Secondary Infections: Flea bites or tick attachment sites can become infected due to scratching or chewing, leading to secondary skin infections that require veterinary treatment.

The Importance of Year-Round Prevention

Many pet owners mistakenly believe that flea and tick prevention is only necessary during spring and summer, but veterinary experts recommend continuing treatments throughout the year for several reasons:

Prevention Is Easier than Treatment: Once fleas or ticks establish themselves on your pet or in your home, getting rid of them can be time-consuming and stressful. Preventative treatments are far more effective and less disruptive than dealing with an infestation.
Your Home Stays Protected: Fleas reproduce rapidly, and just a few fleas can lead to a full-blown infestation in your home. Year-round prevention helps break the flea life cycle before they become a problem in your living space.
Peace of Mind: With consistent flea and tick prevention, you won’t have to worry about outbreaks or unexpected health issues. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your pet is protected all year long.

How to Maintain Flea and Tick Prevention in Autumn and Winter

Maintaining a year-round flea and tick prevention routine is simple and ensures your pets remain protected regardless of the season. Here’s what you can do:

Continue Monthly Treatments: Ensure your pets receive their flea and tick treatments every month, even as the weather cools down. Our pet subscription service conveniently delivers these treatments to your door, so you never miss a dose.
Regular Grooming: Continue checking your pets regularly for any signs of fleas or ticks, especially after outdoor activities. Grooming your pets with a flea comb can help you catch any pests early.
Maintain a Clean Home: Regularly vacuum your home, paying special attention to carpets, rugs, and pet bedding where fleas may hide. Washing your pet’s bedding frequently in hot water also helps prevent flea infestations from taking hold.
Be Cautious on Walks: While your pet may not be venturing out as much, ticks can still be a threat, especially in rural or wooded areas. Stay vigilant when walking in grassy areas and check your pet thoroughly after outdoor adventures.

Year-Round Protection Means a Healthier, Happier Pet

Flea and tick prevention isn’t just a summer concern—it’s a year-round commitment to your pet’s health and well-being. By maintaining a consistent preventative routine, you’re not only protecting your pet from discomfort and disease, but you’re also ensuring a cleaner, healthier home environment for your entire family.

With our pet subscription service, staying on top of flea and tick prevention is easy. We deliver treatments directly to your door every month, so you’ll never have to worry about skipping a dose. Sign up today to keep your pets protected all year round—because pests don’t take the autumn and winter off, and neither should you.

Tick Trouble: How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer

As September approaches, bringing with it the last stretch of warm summer days, the risk of tick infestations on your pets remains high. In the UK, ticks are most active during the warmer months, and this can pose serious health risks to both cats and dogs. Understanding why ticks are more prevalent in the summer, the dangers they present, and how to identify if your pet has been bitten by a tick are essential steps in safeguarding your furry friends.

Tick Prevalence in Summer

Ticks are arachnids, related to spiders, and they thrive in warm, humid conditions. Summer, especially September, is the peak season for tick activity in the UK. These tiny bloodsuckers are found in areas with tall grass, shrubs, and woodlands, where they wait for a host to pass by. Unlike fleas, ticks do not jump; instead, they crawl onto their host when there is direct contact with the vegetation they inhabit.

Ticks go through several life stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. In their quest for blood meals, ticks can latch onto your pets at any stage. Nymphs and adult ticks are particularly active in late summer, making it a critical time for pet owners to be vigilant.

Why Ticks Are a Risk for Your Pet

Ticks can cause a variety of health problems for pets, some of which can be severe or even life-threatening:

Lyme Disease: Perhaps the most well-known tick-borne illness, Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which ticks can transmit to dogs (and less commonly to cats). Symptoms include fever, lameness, swollen joints, and lethargy. Left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to kidney failure and other serious complications.
Anaplasmosis: Another tick-borne disease, anaplasmosis, is caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum and can result in symptoms like fever, joint pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This illness can be difficult to diagnose as its symptoms are often nonspecific.
Babesiosis: Babesiosis is caused by a protozoan parasite that infects red blood cells, leading to anemia, jaundice, fever, and lethargy. It is more commonly seen in dogs than in cats and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Tick Paralysis: Though rare, tick paralysis is a condition caused by the neurotoxin released by some species of ticks when they bite. This can cause weakness, lack of coordination, and even paralysis in pets, which may be reversible if the tick is removed in time.
Skin Infections and Irritation: Tick bites can cause local irritation, redness, and sometimes secondary infections due to constant scratching or grooming by your pet.

Signs Your Pet May Have Ticks

Ticks are expert hiders, often attaching themselves in less noticeable areas on your pet’s body. Regularly checking your pet for ticks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas, is crucial. Here’s what to look out for:

Unusual Bumps or Lumps: Ticks attach themselves to your pet’s skin and become engorged with blood over time, making them easier to spot as they grow. If you notice any small, hard lumps on your pet’s body, it could be a tick.
Scratching and Chewing: If your pet is scratching or chewing at a specific spot more than usual, it’s worth investigating. Ticks often latch on in areas like the neck, ears, under the collar, between the toes, and around the groin area.
Visible Ticks: Ticks are small, usually about the size of a sesame seed when not engorged, and can be black, brown, or grey. They often go unnoticed until they have fed and swollen in size.
Lethargy and Weakness: If your pet shows signs of lethargy, weakness, or reluctance to move, it could be a sign of a tick-borne disease. In such cases, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Preventing and Dealing with Ticks

Prevention is key when it comes to ticks. Our pet subscription service delivers effective monthly tick prevention treatments straight to your door, ensuring your pets are protected throughout the high-risk summer months. Here’s how you can further protect your pets from ticks:

Regular Preventative Treatments: Consistently use tick preventatives, such as topical treatments, oral medications, or tick collars. Our subscription service makes it easy to keep up with your pet’s treatment schedule.
Check Your Pets After Walks: After walks in areas known to be tick habitats, thoroughly check your pet’s fur and skin for ticks. Pay special attention to areas around the ears, neck, underarms, and between the toes.
Maintain Your Garden: Keep your garden tidy by regularly mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs, and removing leaf litter and debris, which are common tick habitats.
Proper Tick Removal: If you find a tick on your pet, it’s important to remove it safely. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your pet’s skin as possible and pull it out steadily without twisting. Dispose of the tick and clean the bite area with antiseptic.

By staying proactive and informed, you can help ensure your pets remain tick-free and healthy throughout the summer. Sign up for our subscription service today and take the worry out of tick prevention, so you and your pets can enjoy the remaining summer days with peace of mind.