A Survey of Ticks Infesting Dogs and Cats in Ireland
2020
Theo de Waal | Amanda Lawlor | Annetta Zintl | Bosco Cowley | Atiyah Bagha
Ticks are important ectoparasites of dogs and cats. Infestations can result in itching and localised dermatitis. In addition, ticks can act as vector of a range of viral, bacterial and protozoal pathogens. This paper reports the results of a nationwide survey of ticks infesting dogs and cats in Ireland. Seventy veterinary practices submitted a total of 120 ticks collected from 56 dogs and 16 cats. <i>Ixodes ricinus</i> was the most abundant species on dogs while <i>Ixodes hexagonus</i> was the most abundant species on cats. The remainder were identified as <i>Ixodes canisuga</i> and a single <i>Rhipicephalus sanguineus</i> specimen. The garden was most frequently associated with tick exposure in both dogs and cats. Sporting dog breeds (n = 17; 31%) were more likely to be infested with ticks than any other breed. Nearly all (n = 56; 95%) veterinarians indicated that ticks are a concern to their clients when they are found on their pets. Pet owners used a variety of products to control ectoparasites on their animals but a significant number (n = 18, 31%) indicated that they felt that the products are less effective highlighting the need for further investigations. Field sampling indicated that ticks are present at a low level in much of the greater Dublin area.
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