Parasites
Ixodes ricinus is tIxodes ricinus is the most common tick in the UK and Ireland.he most common tick in the UK and Ireland.
It has 8 legs and 2 body sections, and is generally found in rural areas, such as woodland. Here, the tick will wait in vegetation, and attach themselves to dogs and cats as they brush past.
The tick has a highly developed mouth part which allows it to form a hole in the skin and feed on the blood of the animal. Reactions can occur at this site, and can cause anaemia if the infestation is severe enough, particularly in young animals.
Most importantly, ticks can transmit Lyme Disease in the UK and Ireland, as well as Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis in pets travelling abroad. Ticks can also attach themselves to humans and transmit tick borne disease.