The European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCAPP) has issued a consensus statement concerning ticks and tick-borne disease prevention in the UK.The European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCAPP) has issued a consensus statement concerning ticks and tick-borne disease prevention in the UK.

The statement, which can be downloaded here, is supported by a number of people and organisations in both the human and animal sector, including the BVA, Lyme Disease Action, the Blue Cross, Bristol, Nottingham and Surrey Universities.

The guidelines cover:

  • the risks posed by ticks and the impact of attachment time on disease transmission
  • the impact of tick killing / repellent products and tick removers in reducing risk
  • tick and sandfly repellents for travelling pets

The statement was coordinated by MSD Animal Health and ESCCAP UK and Ireland in the run up to Tick Awareness Month, MSD's annual campaign coming up in September.

Amanda Melvin, Senior Product Manager, MSD Animal Health said: "The approval of this statement is very timely as we approach Tick Awareness Month. It is a major step forward for the industry by giving all the organisations involved a clear position on the subject. This will allow us to move forward together and tackle some of the issues related to ticks and tick borne diseases, including providing vets with clear practical guidelines for tick control.”  

For further information about Tick Awareness Month, contact your MSD Animal Health representative.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.