Ticks, particularly the paralysis tick, are a significant concern for dog owners in Australia. Dogs can be vulnerable to several types of ticks, each with its own risks and potential health implications.
Main types of tick that affect dogs in Australia
Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus): These are the most dangerous ticks as their bite can be fatal. They
Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus): These ticks can also cause skin irritation, and in heavy infestation can cause anaemia. Bush ticks can transmit other potentially fatal diseases when they bite, e.g. babesiosis and ehrlichiosis which can cause anaemia, weakness, fever and death. produce neurotoxins dangerous paralysis and death if not treated quickly. They are typically found in warm, humid regions along the east coast of Australia.
Bush Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis): While not as dangerous as paralysis ticks, bush ticks can still cause skin irritation and transmit diseases like babesiosis which causes anaemia and can be fatal. Bush ticks are found mostly along the Australian east coast, from Queensland down to Victoria, and on the west coast, south of Perth.
How ticks can affect a dog throughout their life
Puppyhood: Puppies are especially vulnerable to the effects of the paralysis tick, which can cause wobbly hind legs, loss of appetite, respiratory failure if not treated promptly to protect puppies. If you live in a tick prone area, regularly check your puppy for ticks all over its body, including under their legs and tail. Dogs with dense or long coats should have extra care taken as their fur may hide a tick from sight.
Adolescence: Let the adventuring begin! Adolescent dogs are very curious and likely to explore environments where paralysis ticks thrive such as long grass, bush scrub and creeks. Always thoroughly check your dog for ticks and other parasites such as leeches after any trips involving water and scrub, all it takes is one visitor carried home to cause ill health!
Adulthood: Adult dogs continue to need protection from ticks. The paralysis tick can cause symptoms such as inability to get up, changes in voice or bark, vomiting, and difficulty breathing, which can lead to more severe health issues if not addressed. Don’t be complacent about checking your dog in adulthood, just because they have never had a tick, doesn’t mean they won’t encounter one in the future.
Senior Years: Senior dogs can be particularly vulnerable to ticks as they may have underlying conditions making it harder for their bodies to fight against tick paralysis or other tick-borne diseases.
Common Symptoms
Unusual Lumps: Ticks can create a noticeable bump on the dog’s skin as they feed and become engorged.
A Wobbly Walk: Tick toxins can lead to a loss of coordination, usually starting in the back legs, or even an inability to get up
Respiratory Distress: Heavy panting, coughing, or difficulty breathing can occur as the tick toxin weakens the respiratory muscles.
Vomiting: Your dog may vomit after a tick bite.
Change in Bark: A noticeable difference in the pitch or volume of your dog’s bark could indicate tick paralysis.
Collapse: This could be a serious and advanced stage of tick paralysis and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Overall Prevention
To safeguard dogs from ticks, consistent use of tick prevention treatments, such as NexGard Spectra, is recommended. Regularly check your dog for ticks, especially after they've been in areas where ticks are common. Maintain a tidy outdoor environment, reducing tick habitats in your yard. Steer clear of areas known for high tick populations, and keep up with your dog's grooming to spot any ticks early. If you find a tick, it is important to stay calm and remove it as soon as possible. Consult your vet for advice removal, what symptoms to look out for and whether you need to see your vet urgently.
Parasite control is a critical aspect of responsible dog ownership and Australia's climate means we have large areas inhabited by dangerous ticks. Dogz Online recommends NexGard Spectra as the most complete parasite protection against fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and intestinal worms, all in one tasty chew, as always, consult your vet prior to commencing any parasite treatments. 🐾
