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Let's look at the facts
Poodle Breeds most at risk of ticks (according to the RVC study):
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Protect Them Poodles: Vet Zoe’s top tips to prevent ticks
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Designer dogs are more prone to tick bites
- By Hannah
-
- December 12, 2024
- 2 MIN READ
Calling all poodle owners (cross-breeds included)! Your dog breed is the most at risk of getting tick bites… Read on to find out more and most importantly, how to prevent those pesky ticks.
Let's look at the facts
In recent research undertaken by the Royal Veterinary College in the University of London (RVC), it has been discovered that new designer cross breeds - including Cavapoo, Cockapoo and Goldendoodle - are all at higher risk of tick infestation because of their poodle descent.
In a 5-year period, the study analysed many different dogs, but the top scoring pets were designer dog breeds (a deliberate cross between established pure breeds). Due to their curly coat and long hair, poodle breeds are the most prone of designer dogs to be infested with ticks. There are other factors that also encourage a tick to latch onto your poodle pooch such as, ear carriage, skull shape, and bodyweight as well as sex and age*.
Poodle Breeds most at risk of ticks (according to the RVC study):
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Cavapoo
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Goldendoodle
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Standard Poodle
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Cockapoo
Hear it from our vet
Other designer breeds such as Cavachons are also highly at risk of tick infestations. If your dog isn’t in the list above, don’t assume that they are immune to ticks because unfortunately no dog is. Don’t believe us? Hear it from our in-house vet, Dr Zoe Costigan BVSC BSC(Hons) Cert AVP MRCVS:
“Even though long-haired dog breeds are more likely, all dogs are susceptible to tick bites and tick borne diseases. Sadly there are no vaccines for most tick borne diseases, and they don't keep your pet from bringing ticks into your home. So it’s really important to follow the key tick prevention practices (below) and to use a tick preventive product, like the Itch Flea treatment for Dogs”
Protect Them Poodles: Vet Zoe’s top tips to prevent ticks
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Always use preventative tick treatments
Spot-on treatments like Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs kills adult ticks attached to your pet (and lice) within 48 hours.
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Don’t forget to groom
Regularly brush your pet with a fine-toothed comb to help detect and remove ticks before they attach.
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Give them the once over after being outside
After outdoor adventures, thoroughly inspect your pet for ticks. Pay attention to areas where ticks are likely to attach, such as ears, neck, and underarms.
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Your garden should be on the tick-free team too
Keep your outdoor space well-maintained by trimming grass and shrubs. Consider using pet-safe tick repellents to reduce tick populations.
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Don’t delay. Use a spray
When heading to tick-prone areas, consider using tick-repellent sprays designed for pets to provide an added layer of protection.
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Eyes peeled, ears perked
Ticks can be active in various seasons, so maintaining consistent tick preventatives year-round is crucial, especially in mild climates. Peak tick season in the UK is from Spring, all the way to Autumn.
Think you’ve found a tick?
If this unlucky scenario happens to you, don’t panic just check out our step by step guide on how to remove a tick.
Where we got the facts from:
*RVC University of London, 2024, Source: https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/news/cavapoo-and-cockapoo-designer-dog-breeds-at-high-risk-of-tick-infestation-study-finds#:~:text=The%20study%20scored%20Standard%20Poodles,to%20refuse%20to%20attach%20themselves.
Say NO to ticks on your designer dog!
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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