Flying ants tend to make an appearance during warmer days with very little wind or rain.
Unlike regular ants, these ants are known to bite both people and animals, causing irritation.
With this, a pet expert has issued a warning to dog owners, telling Brits to keep their pups inside if they seem bothered or distracted by the flying ants.
This Morning vet tells dog owners to keep pets inside if they are ‘distracted or distraught' by flying ants
This Morning's Dr Scott Miller, who is a vet for dog food brand Barking Heads, said: “Although flying ants can be a nuisance for us, they can be a real bother to your dog. The black pavement ant, known as the flying ant, tends to make an appearance during the warmer summer days.
“They come out to mate during their short lifespan, and because that’s all they’re thinking of, they will rest on any surface, including on your dog, and some may bite your pup.
“The best course of action on flying ant day is to keep your dog inside with windows and doors shut where possible. If you do decide to venture out, I suggest going out during the evening as the weather will be cooler, as there will be a lower number of ants about. See how your dog is reacting. If you find they’re distracted or distraught, you may want to take them home.
“If you see flying ants on your dog, gently brush them out of your furry friend’s coat to stop the irritation that comes from a bug sitting in your dog’s coat, but it’s also a good way to prevent bites from them.”
Recommended Reading:
How to keep flying ants out of your home this summer
Do flying ants bite people in the UK? Here is everything you need to know
Discussing the effects of other insects, the expert said: “Other insects can be an issue for your dog too. Slugs and snails, look harmless but can lead to lungworm in your dog if ingested. Lungworm is similar to Heartworm, which is a parasite that can live inside your dog.
“Symptoms include coughing, breathing problems, not wanting to exercise, loss of appetite and vomiting or diarrhoea. If you suspect your dog has swallowed a slug and contracted Lungworm, take them to a vet for treatment.
“Bees and wasps can leave a nasty sting on your dog, especially if they snap at them and the bee or wasp lands on their muzzle or worse, inside their mouths.
“In most cases a sting will end in mild pain and irritation but if your dog is allergic, it can lead to a trip to the vet. Fleas and ticks, meanwhile, are the most common parasites affecting dogs.”
