An expert has issued an urgent warning to pet owners about a 'near-invisible' seasonal parasite in gardens, parks, and outdoor spaces.
The warning comes from Dr Charlotte Inness, a vet with more than 10 years of experience, who has raised concerns about harvest mites and lungworm larvae in areas across Greater Manchester, including the popular Heaton Park.
She said: "Once attached, these larvae inject specialised digestive enzymes that literally liquefy the pet's skin cells to feed on them.
"This triggers a frantic, non-stop itch that can keep pets awake all night."
While most owners are familiar with common pests like fleas and ticks, Dr Inness said lesser-known parasites could be even more dangerous.
Harvest mites, which appear as tiny orange specks, cluster in late summer and target thin-skinned areas of dogs and cats, such as paws, ears, and groins.
In addition to severe itching, harvest mites are linked to Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI), a rare but serious condition peaking between September and October that can result in lethargy and illness within 24 to 72 hours.
Lungworm, another potentially fatal parasite, is spread by slugs and snails commonly found in gardens.
Dr Inness said: "Licking dried slime trails left on outdoor water bowls, garden toys, or grass is enough to transmit the parasite.
"An infected dog might tire quickly on walks or develop a minor cough.
"In severe cases, it prevents blood from clotting properly, causing unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or fatal internal bleeding."
Many owners believe their regular worming tablets protect against lungworm, but Dr Inness warns that most over-the-counter treatments only cover intestinal worms.
Lungworm requires a specific, prescription-only preventative.
Dr Inness said: "Many owners associate parasites strictly with deep countryside walks, but the standard UK garden houses several prime breeding grounds."
She warns that the biggest blind spots aren't flowerbeds, but rather:
- The undercutting of patio slabs and overgrown lawn edges
- Damp leaf piles left untended
- Forgotten, water-logged dog toys left on the grass
She recommends a daily 'Paws & Pits' check, running fingers through a pet’s toes, armpits, groin, and ears after walks to catch parasites early.
If a tick is found, Dr Inness advises using a tick hook or twister to gently remove it by twisting until it releases, rather than pulling straight out.
Pet owners who notice symptoms such as intense, localised itching or unexplained fatigue are urged to seek veterinary advice.
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