Vets are warning pet owners over an increased risk of their animals catching ticks and fleas this summer, after recent weather created the perfect breeding ground for parasites.

The warm and damp conditions throughout the UK over the past few months, means grass has grown longer and thicker, increasing the spread of ticks and fleas.

With families and their pets making the most of the sunshine with outdoor activities, there is now a greater risk they will come into contact with these pesky parasites.

Dr Huw Stacey, director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, said: "Every year when the weather is wet but mild, we see a rise in the number of pets coming into our practices suffering from parasites.

"Adult fleas can jump 165 times their own length and can easily spread from one pet to another when they are outside enjoying the summer weather.

"Ticks can’t jump but will attach themselves onto pets to feed on their blood and can cause skin irritation and discomfort, as well as transfer some dangerous diseases."

Dr Stacey set its vital pet owners brush and check over their pet's hair after being outside.

He advised owners against removing ticks with tweezers or their fingers, for risk of leaving the parasite's head behind which can cause further problems.

A single flea can lay up to 2,000 eggs in its lifetime - most of which will be found in carpets and soft furniture - and fleas can bite humans too. 

Ticks can spread a number of dangerous diseases, including Lyme disease which can be caught by humans.

Dr Stacey added: "We strongly believe that prevention is better than cure, especially with easily preventable problems like ticks and fleas."