Paralysis Ticks on the Northern Beaches
Sydney's Northern Beaches can claim one of the highest incidences of the Paralysis Tick 'Ixodes holocyclus'. The Paralysis tick is most common from Spring into summer. August until February are the peak season. We still see tick paralysis cases in the cooler months and during Winter. We recommend you dose tick prevention all year round.
How can I find ticks on my pets?
-90% of ticks on cats are around the head and neck
-70% of ticks on dogs are above the neck
Ticks can get into mouths, ears, eyes and in between toes. They can cause paralysis even after they have fallen off.
If you are unsure if your pet has tick paralysis, please come straight to the clinic and one of our friendly nurses can perform a thorough tick search and remove any ticks if needed.
Signs of Tick Paralysis
EARLY SIGNS
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Change in voice - the meow or bark is softer or in a different pitch.
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Weakness in the hind limbs - walking along then suddenly sitting down.
LATER SIGNS
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Weakness/wobbly in the hind limbs progressing to front limbs
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Dogs will often vomit and regurgitate
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Panting - progressing to loud breathing
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Excessive salivation
WORSENING SIGNS
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As signs of poisoning progress they are unable to stand
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Breathing becomes exaggerated and difficult - as breathing becomes more difficult, the gums become cold and blue-tinged. Death follows quite quickly
If you pet is showing any signs of tick paralysis (even mild),
seek Veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY. Tick paralysis is an emergency.
EVERY YEAR ANIMALS IN THIS AREA DIE FROM TICK PARALYSIS!
Preventing Tick Paralysis
No product is 100% guaranteed in preventing tick paralysis.
It is essential you give your pet a thorough tick search every night in tick season
Bravecto Chew
An oral chew provides 3 months of paralysis tick and flea prevention.
It also treats and controls demodex mites, sarcoptic mange and ear mite infestations.
It can be given to puppies over 8 weeks of age weighing greater than 2kg.
Safe to use in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs.
Nexgard or Nexgard Spectra
An oral beef flavoured chew given monthly for paralysis tick and flea prevention.
It also treats and controls demodex mites, sarcoptic mange and ear mite infestations.
Nexgard can be given to puppies over 8 weeks of age weighing greater than
2kg.
Nexgard Spectre also covers heartworm, roundworm, whipworm and hookworm.
The safe use in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs has not yet been evaluated.
Use with caution in dogs with history of seizures.
Simparica or Simparica Trio
An oral chew given monthly for paralysis tick and flea prevention.
It also treats and controls demodex mites, sarcoptic mange and ear mite infestations.
Simparica can be given to puppies over 8 weeks of age weighing over 1.3kg.
Simparica Trio also covers heartworm, roundworm and hookworm.
The safe use in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs has not yet been evaluated.