After several recent walks through parks, woodlands, and local footpaths, I’ve found one—or sometimes several—deer ticks on my dog, usually crawling through his fur. This year appears to be a record year for tick numbers, and I know many others are worried too. The topic even came up during my recent ROLO (Register of Land‑based Operatives) course. People who work or spend time outdoors—gardeners, amenity workers, ecologists, and hobbyists—often recall finding ticks on their clothing, skin, or pets.
Background.
Ticks progress through four life stages: egg, six‑legged larva, eight‑legged nymph, and adult. They can live for up to three years and will feed on multiple hosts during their lifetime.
Tick Surveillance in the UK
Did you know there is a national Tick Surveillance Scheme? Established in 2005, it monitors tick distribution and seasonality across the UK. The data collected helps the UK Health Security Agency assess the public‑health impact of Ixodes ricinus (the deer tick), as well as rare or imported tick species.
More information can be found here: Send a tick to UKHSA’s Tick Surveillance Scheme – GOV.UK
Why Ticks Matter
Ticks are vectors for pathogens and disease. Lyme disease, transmitted by infected ticks, is widely recognised for causing a circular red rash at the bite site—the classic “bull’s‑eye” rash—along with symptoms such as joint pain, fever, and chills.
Lyme disease can usually be treated successfully with antibiotics, especially when diagnosed early. However, some people experience long‑term symptoms even after completing the recommended treatment. This is often referred to as post‑treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS).
Removing Ticks Safely
If you discover a tick, it’s important to remove it as soon as possible. Use fine‑tipped tweezers or a proper tick‑removal tool (photo attached of a feeding tick removed from my dog). Follow the recommended technique carefully, then apply antiseptic ointment. This year, I’ve added two new tick‑removal tools to my first‑aid kits.
Stay Vigilant Outdoors
If you’re spending time outside in long grass or vegetation, please take care. Check your clothing and skin regularly—especially during the warmer months from April to September.
Stay safe out there.
Melissa Rose (and Reg the dog)