The UK Tick Season Survival Guide (For Dogs Who Love the Outdoors)
Sniffing through forests? Romping across moorland? Rolling in the grass like no one’s watching?
Yes please. But while your dog’s busy living their best adventure life, ticks are quietly lurking, ready to hitch a ride.
Tick season in the UK runs from spring through to autumn, and while they may be small, these creepy crawlies can cause big problems for your four-legged explorer. Don’t worry, though. We’ve got you covered (and your pup too) with everything you need to know: from spotting the signs, to removing ticks safely, and staying protected in the first place.
What Actually Is a Tick (And Why Should Dogs Care)?
Ticks are tiny, spider-like freeloaders that feed on blood (yep, gross). They hang out on grass and low plants, waiting to leap onto your unsuspecting dog. Once they latch on, they stay put and start feeding, sometimes for days.
Why’s that a problem? Some ticks in the UK can carry nasty things like Lyme disease, which can affect dogs just like humans. Symptoms might include:
- Limping or stiffness
- Low energy
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen joints
Most dogs don’t notice the bite itself, which is why regular checks are so important.
Where Are Ticks Found in the UK?
Short answer: anywhere with grass and wildlife. Long answer: they thrive in moist, shady environments like:
🐾 Forests and woodlands
🐾 Meadows and long grass
🐾 Moorlands, heathlands, and even your local park
🐾 Gardens with hedgehogs, deer, or fox visitors
Tick hotspots include South West England, the Lake District, parts of Wales, Thetford Forest, and the Scottish Highlands. But honestly, they can turn up just about anywhere.
How to Keep Your Dog Tick-Free
Here’s how to stay one paw ahead:
Stick to trails
It’s not always easy (especially with a scent-obsessed hound), but try to steer your dog away from knee-high grass and dense undergrowth.
Use a dog-safe tick repellent
There are plenty of vet-approved sprays, spot-ons, and collars that help keep ticks away. Never use human repellents on dogs as they’re not pet-safe.
Check your dog after every walk
Key tick target zones:
🐾 Behind the ears
🐾 Under the neck
🐾 Groin and armpits
🐾 Between toes
🐾 Around the tail
Make it part of your post-adventure cuddle routine!
Carry a tick remover
Trust us, this is one bit of kit you don’t want to leave behind. It’s small, lightweight, and could save a vet visit.
How to Remove a Tick From Your Dog (Without Drama)
Found a tick? No biggie. Here’s how to sort it out safely:
- Use a tick remover tool – It’s designed to get ticks out cleanly and pain-free.
- Hook the tick close to the skin and twist gently. Don’t yank, and definitely don’t squeeze the body.
- Clean the bite site with antiseptic, and give your dog a treat for being brave (very important step).
- Wash your hands and keep an eye on the bite area over the next few days.
Never try to burn a tick off, cover it in Vaseline, or smother it in oil. Those old wives’ tales can actually make things worse.
Mountain Paws Adventure Picks for Tick Season
We’re all about helping dogs (and their humans) enjoy the outdoors safely. Here’s what we always pack when ticks are about:
Tick Remover Tool
Essential. Works on dogs, humans, and even muddy mates who don’t like to sit still.
Dog First Aid Kit
Loaded with the basics for bumps, scrapes, and tick bites. It’s peace of mind in a pouch.
Collapsible Water Bowl
Because hydration is key after high-energy walks (and it’s always good to rinse a wound if you’re miles from a tap).
When to Call the Vet
Most tick bites won’t cause serious problems, but keep an eye out for:
- Lethargy or limping
- Swollen joints
- Appetite changes
- A strange rash around the bite
If anything feels off, or you’re not sure if you got the tick out fully, give your vet a shout. They’ve seen it all before.
Happy Trails, Not Ticked-Off Tails
Your dog deserves to roam, sniff, explore, and roll to their heart’s content and with a little bit of prep, tick season doesn’t have to ruin the fun.
So stock up on the essentials, do those post-walk checks, and keep the adventures coming. We’ll see you (and your mud-loving mutt) out on the trail.
