An unexpected warning is now addressed to Swedish dog owners, who usually worry about ticks during the summer. Scientists are now calling for vigilance even during the winter, especially in southern Sweden where mild temperatures can bring new risks.
READ MORE: The dog should never do that on the walk – can get mange
Ticks active at four degrees
Ticks, which can spread diseases such as Lyme disease and TBE, come to life already at four plus degrees. This means that they can be active even during December, according to the research center Station Linné.
Dave Karlssonwho is a researcher at Station Linné, warns of a possible tick pandemic.
– In the 60s, we hardly saw ticks other than in a few places in Skåne. Now they are super common in southern Sweden and have spread far up into Norrland. We also see new species from, for example, Russia, which means that we can expect more ticks in the future if climate change continues, says Dave Karlsson to P4 Kalmar.
READ MORE: The warning: Deadly dog disease spreads – how to protect your dog
Tick-borne diseases threaten dogs
Veterinarians are now urging dog owners to be aware of symptoms that may indicate Lyme disease. Although most dogs do not get sick from the infection, some can develop a reduced general condition such as fever, fatigue, and stiff and sore joints. Another symptom is “walking lameness”, where the lameness moves between different legs.
Fever, fatigue, as well as stiff and sore joints can be symptoms of Lyme disease. Photo: Darko Vojinovic/TT
READ MORE: The dog Isidor was pushed up against the wall and kidnapped
Record-warm climate exacerbates the problem
EU climate programme Copernicus announced earlier this week that 2024 will be the warmest year on record. According to Gustav Strandbergclimate researcher at SMHI, it is a trend that is becoming increasingly apparent.
– It will become clear to everyone that the climate is no longer what it was before, he says SVT.
Warmer winters increase tick survival, which can create new problems for both animals and humans. The researchers therefore call for vigilance all year round, even during the cold months.
READ MORE: The predator extinct for 90 years – may soon be brought back to life