PARALYSIS TICK WARNING: VETS SEE A SURGE IN SICK DOGS AS TICK SEASON PEAKS
Pet owners are being urged to check their dogs every day after a surge in paralysis tick cases on Sydney's Northern Beaches.
Collaroy Veterinary Hospital says two dogs have recently died from tick paralysis, and the clinic is now seeing several dogs with ticks every single day, the Manly Observer reports.
It is a heartbreaking reminder that tick season is well and truly here.
A Family's Frightening Night
Among the recent cases is Mocca, an 11-year-old cavoodle from Collaroy.
Her owner, Amelie, found her in distress at about 2am and rushed her to an emergency vet at Terrey Hills before she was moved to Collaroy Veterinary Hospital.
The very next day, Amelie found a tick on her second dog, Chino, who is now recovering.
Mocca's vet bills have already reached about $10,000, and her family fears they could climb to $20,000.
Her story shows just how quickly things can change, and how costly treatment can be.
What Is A Paralysis Tick?
The paralysis tick is found along the east coast of Australia, and it is most active in the warmer months of spring and summer.
It attaches to an animal and releases a toxin that affects the nerves and muscles.
Without treatment, that toxin can make it hard for a pet to walk, breathe and swallow, and it can be fatal.
Dogs and cats can both be affected, especially those that spend time in bushland, long grass or gardens near native scrub.
The Paralysis Tick Warning Signs To Watch For
Early symptoms can be subtle, so it helps to know what to look for.
Watch for wobbly or weak back legs, which is often one of the first signs.
Laboured or noisy breathing is another red flag.
Your pet may cough, gag or vomit.
A change in the sound of your dog's bark or your cat's meow can also be a warning sign.
If you notice any of these, or you find a tick on your pet, see a vet straight away rather than waiting to see if things improve.
How To Protect Your Pet
According to Dr Emily Pratten from Collaroy Veterinary Hospital, using a tick preventative is the only way to prevent tick paralysis.
There are several options, including chews given by mouth, spot-on treatments applied to the back of the neck, and a year-long injection for dogs.
Your vet can help you choose the right product for your pet's size, age and lifestyle.
Giving it on time matters, because missing a dose by even a few days can leave your pet unprotected.
Dr Pratten also warns that natural remedies do not provide protection against ticks.
Make A Daily Tick Search Part Of Your Routine
As well as using a preventative, run your fingers slowly over your pet's whole body every day.
Pay special attention to the head, neck, ears, lips, armpits and between the toes, where ticks love to hide.
Keeping long-haired breeds clipped during summer can make ticks easier to spot.
Try to keep your dog out of dense bush and long grass in high-risk areas during peak season.
If you do find a tick, contact your vet for advice, even if your pet seems perfectly well.
Peace Of Mind For Pet Owners
Treatment for tick paralysis can be expensive, as Mocca's family has discovered.
It is worth checking whether your pet insurance covers it, and keeping your local after-hours emergency vet's number saved in your phone.
For more background, Bow Wow Meow has a helpful guide to ticks and pets.
A few minutes a day and a reminder on your calendar could save your furry friend's life.
We are sending our love to Mocca and her family.
