Researchers from the University of Bristol have
noticed that the number of dogs infested with parasites is far higher than
previous records. They have found a breed of bloodsucking tick (Dermacentor reticulates) for the first time in UK. These ticks are a major disease vector in
continental Europe and might have arrived in UK due to climate changes. Now scientists
fear that the disease carried by these ticks could possibly infect humans and
animals in the country.
3,500 dogs were studied during the
research. It was found that at any one time 15% of dogs were infested with
ticks. This research has serious
implications for the increased incidence of tick-borne disease among dogs. Gun
dogs like retrievers, setters and spaniels, plus terriers and pastoral breeds which
are traditionally used to guard livestock are found to be most susceptible for
tick infestations. Long-haired species were more susceptible than short-haired
breeds.
Tick-borne Disease Baffles China Authorities
Public fears about a tick-borne disease that has killed more than 30 people since 2007 are being assuaged by health authorities in China
Source: Medindia
