Table of Contents
What exactly is a tick?
When is tick season in the uk?
Where are you most likely to pick up ticks?
How to protect yourself from ticks
If you find a tick...
How to protect your pet from ticks
Lyme disease
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When is tick season?
- By Leigha
-
- May 8, 2025
- 3 MIN READ
If you’ve ever come back from a walk in the woods and found a tick burrowed into your ankle or on your dog’s fur, you’ll know just how unpleasant tick season is. These tiny bloodsuckers might be small, but they can cause a surprising amount of trouble. Whether you’re a hiker, dog walker, or someone who just enjoys the odd picnic in the countryside, ticks come out in force at certain times of the year, so it’s wise to know when this is. Keep reading to find out!
What exactly is a tick?
Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They’re part of the arachnid family (yes, like spiders), and they thrive in grassy, bushy, or wooded areas. You’ll usually spot them by accident – if you spot them at all – clinging to your clothing or pet after being outdoors.
The problem with ticks isn’t just the bite itself (though that’s bad enough); it’s the fact they can carry diseases like Lyme disease.
When is tick season in the uk?
Now, technically speaking, ticks can be found throughout the year if conditions are right. But they’re most active during the warmer months – typically from March to October. This is when the weather is warm enough for them to become active, but not so dry that they shrivel up. Damp, mild conditions? Ticks love that.
Spring and early summer tend to be the peak times, especially in wooded areas, heathlands, and parks where wildlife like deer, rabbits, and birds act as hosts for the ticks.
That said, with the climate shifting and our winters becoming milder, the boundaries of “tick season” are becoming a little fuzzier. It’s not unheard of to find active ticks on dogs in December after a warm spell. So, on-going year round protection from ticks is more important than ever!
Where are you most likely to pick up ticks?
You’ll find them in:
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Long grass and overgrown fields
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Woodland and forest paths
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Moors and heathland
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Leaf piles and garden shrubs (especially if wildlife comes through)
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City parks and even gardens, particularly if you live near green space
How to protect yourself from ticks
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Dress smart
If you’re heading for a hike or walk through tick-prone areas, wear long sleeves, trousers, and tuck your trousers into your socks. It’s not the height of fashion, but it helps keep ticks out.
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Light colours help
Ticks are easier to spot on pale clothing, so avoid dark outfits where they can hide.
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Use repellent
A good insect repellent with DEET (or something similar) can help keep ticks at bay
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Stick to paths
Try to avoid brushing against long grass or dense undergrowth where ticks lurk.
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Check yourself
After spending time outdoors, especially in rural areas, do a tick check. Pay attention to armpits, backs of knees, the groin area, and hairline.
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Shower soon after
Showering can help dislodge ticks before they’ve had a chance to properly attach.
If you find a tick...
If you do find a tick attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible using a tick hook – gripping close to the skin and pulling steadily. Don’t twist or squash it. The goal is to get it out cleanly, as quickly as you can. For a step-by-step guide on removing a tick from your pet, click here.
How to protect your pet from ticks
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Use a tick treatment regularly
There are spot-on treatments that can kill or repel ticks, like the Itch Flea Treatment for dogs and cats. Subscribe today and get tick treatment delivered every month, for free, exactly when you need it.
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Check your pet after walks
Run your hands over their body and check common hiding spots like under the collar, behind the ears, between the toes, and around the tail base. Here’s where ticks will hide on your pet.
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Keep your garden tidy
Trim long grass and keep shrubs in check to reduce the number of ticks in your outdoor space.
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Avoid known tick hotspots during peak season
If you know certain woods or parks have a high tick population, maybe give them a miss in the height of summer or stick to the paths.
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Don’t forget cats
Outdoor cats can also pick up ticks, so keep an eye out even if they’re not as obviously affected as dogs.
Lyme disease
Lyme disease is a big concern when it comes to tick bites. It’s caused by bacteria that some ticks carry, and if untreated, it can lead to serious long-term health issues.
In humans, symptoms include a circular red rash (often called a “bullseye” rash), flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and joint pain. If you think you’ve been bitten and feel unwell, don’t wait – see your GP.
Dogs can also get Lyme disease, though it’s rarer. Signs might include lethargy, lameness, fever, and swollen joints. Your vet is the best port of call, contact them if you are concerned.
Ticks might be a bit grim, but they’re a manageable part of life in the UK. With a few precautions and a good tick-check routine, you can still enjoy everything from dog walks to wild swims without too much worry.
Just remember: March to October is prime time for ticks – so dress wisely, keep an eye on your pets, and don’t let a tiny bug ruin your time in nature.
Protect your pet from fleas, ticks and lice.
Fleas, ticks and lice can be a nightmare, but with the right approach, you can take control and rid your pets and home of these bothersome pests. Remember that parasites can be persistent, so patience and regular treatment will be your best friends! By addressing both your pet and their environment, you can ensure a flea-free and comfortable living space for both your furry companion and your family.
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