Vets warn of serious disease that can spread to dogs and humans Lyme disease is a serious infection that can affect dogs, cats and humans Ticks are found in long grass and woodlands (Image: Viktor Gladkov ) An urgent warning has been given to dog owners about a common - yet potentially devastating - disease that can spread to humans. Ticks, tiny spider-like creatures found in long grass and woodlands, become more active when the weather gets warmer, and many dog owners will have plucked at least one of these pests off their pet in the past. Ticks are parasites who survive by feeding on the blood of mammals and birds. They are most active in the months April to July, and can be recognised by their large, white bodies which become dark when filled with blood. ‌ Some ticks carry bacteria that can cause Lyme disease, a serious infection that can affect dogs, cats and humans (though it is less common in cats). Symptoms of the disease in animals includes depression, loss of appetite, fever, lameness, swollen and painful joints, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy. In humans, one of the most common symptoms is a spreading, circular rash at the site of the tick bite, which typically develops up to 30 days after being bitten. Other symptoms include mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and fatigue, a facial droop, nerve pains and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Article continues below Dr. Hannah Godfrey, veterinary expert from Petsure, said: "Ticks bury their mouthparts deep into the skin of both animals and humans while they feed, then drop off once they're full. When they finish feeding, they become dark grey or brown and are much larger in size." In severe cases, dogs may suffer from paralysis as a result of a tick bite. This may start with a loss of coordination in their back legs, and can progress to breathing changes and losing their bark, in severe cases. Godfrey urged pet owners to check their pets themselves after every walk to try and catch ticks before they become disastrous for the animal's health. Tick combs can be used, especially for dogs with long hair, to remove any unattached parasites. ‌ The blood-sucking creatures can also be removed using tweezers and pet owners must make sure to dispose of the tick quickly and properly. Another vet, Lily Richards, previously told The Mirror about parasite-prevention products and how they could help protect people's beloved animals. She said: "Tick prevention product choice should be based on your pet's lifestyle. If your dog enjoys swimming a lot, perhaps a chewable product will be more reliable for them to ensure they stay safe. ‌ "If it is difficult to give your pet an oral product, and they do not get bathed or fully submerged in water often, perhaps a topical spot-on product suits them more." In humans, Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics. If untreated, it can cause a wider range of symptoms in some people such as multiple rashes on other parts of the body, facial droop, shooting nerve pain and, rarely, palpitations or joint swelling. Most patients treated in the later stages of infection also respond very well to antibiotics, although some may have long-term damage to their joints or the nervous system, the UK Health Security Agency said. Article continues below If you become unwell within a few weeks of being bitten by a tick, contact your GP or dial NHS 111 promptly. Not everyone will realise that they were bitten by a tick, so it is possible to develop Lyme disease symptoms without remembering a tick bite.