• Nearly one in five (18 per cent) vets treat more than 100 animals suffering from tick bites each year
• 70 per cent of dog owners report their dogs are bitten by ticks at least once per year
• Vets report they have witnessed dogs die because of tick bites
• According to vets, treating a tick-related illness could cost £591
   

New research conducted by Direct Line Pet Insurance has revealed that pet owners should take extra precautions walking their dogs this autumn, as tick season has arrived. The findings show that British vets1see on average, 53 tick-related cases every year, some with severe consequences.  Ticks can also be carriers for Lyme disease2, which pose a risk for owners if their pets are left untreated causing flu-like symptoms or even paralysis of facial muscles and even heart failure.
 

Almost one in five vets (18 per cent) say they see more than 100 cases involving ticks each year, with some treating upwards of 250 bitten dogs. Nearly 70 per cent of dog owners report3 that their dogs are bitten by ticks at least once per year, while seven per cent say their dogs experience tick bites more than ten times per year. 
 

Tick bites can lead to anything from localised irritation in dogs to paralysis and even death. While nearly half of the vets surveyed (47 per cent) named localised infection as the most serious complication treated as a result of tick bites, a further six per cent described serious conditions such as nasty infections, blood clotting and even some bites requiring surgical intervention - all possible threats a tiny tick bite can bring to four legged friends.
 

When pets are brought in for treatment, the average cost of treating a tick bite is £38. But if the pet has contracted a tick-related illness, the figure can jump to as much as £591. The latter can involve surgery or blood transfusions and in the worst case even death.
 

Prit Powar, head of pet insurance at Direct Line, said: “Frequent walks outside are great for both you and your pet. However, with tick season upon us, extra precautions should be taken by owners to keep their dogs tick-free. Ticks are not only a nuisance, but can spread disease to pets and humans, such as localised infections and in more serious cases, Lyme disease.”
 

Direct Line’s tips for protecting your dog from tick-related diseases

• Use tick repellents, such as sprays or special collars to protect your dog from bites
• Keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour as lethargy is a common symptom of a tick bite
• Feel for ticks on your dog’s body by checking for unusual lumps, including under the collar, inside the ears and between the paws
• If you find a tick, keep calm and make sure you remove it the correct way. Further information, including how to remove ticks properly, can be found on the link below
   

https://www.directline.com/pet-insurance/lifestyle/protect-your-pet-from-ticks
 

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1   Research carried out among 100 vets between 17th & 22nd June 2016

2   Signs and symptoms of Lyme disease, NHS Choices:

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Lyme-disease/Pages/Introduction.aspx#symptoms

3   Research carried out by Petbuzz Market Research amongst 1,390 UK pet owners between 15th & 29th June 2016
 

For further information please contact:

Claire Foster

Direct Line

[email protected]  
0165 183 1672
 

Direct Line
 

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. UK Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and UK Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 300 7838 or visiting www.directline.com

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