Spring traditionally sees an increase in paralysis ticks in many parts of Australia. The paralysis tick is the single most dangerous parasite for dogs and cats on the Eastern Coast of Australia. It has been described, as the most toxic tick in the world, just one tick is capable of causing paralysis and death.
With these useful tips on tick control you can help protect your pets from these dangerous parasites:
- Look for ticks in the following areas: In and around the ears, around the eyelids, under the collar, under the front legs, between the back legs, and between the toes.
- Ticks can be removed using a tick ‘extractor’, tweezers or long fingernails – leaving the head behind is unlikely to happen and is not a problem.
- Brushing also helps to remove them.
- If your pet seems fine, carry out a complete tick search of the entire body and contact the vet to determine if your pet needs to be examined or possibly bathed in a tick wash to kill any ticks that have not been located in your search.
- Use the right products suggested by your Vet. There are many products available on the market however only a small portion of these are effective. Always be sure to only use products that have been prescribed to your pet.
- Ticks toxicity can present in a number of ways from vomiting and lameness to a change in your pet’s bark or meow. If you suspect your pet may have a tick, contact your vet immediately.