Warm-weather warning: Keep your pets safe from paralysis ticks

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Spring and summer on Tamborine Mountain bring warm weather, longer days, and plenty of opportunities for pets to enjoy the outdoors.

Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when paralysis ticks are most active.

These tiny parasites can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening illness in dogs and cats, making awareness and prevention absolutely essential for local pet owners.

The paralysis tick, common along the east coast of Australia, produces a toxin that affects the nervous system.

Signs of tick paralysis often begin subtly but can progress quickly.

Early symptoms may include weakness in the back legs, wobbliness, or reluctance to walk.

As the toxin spreads, pets may experience difficulty breathing, vomiting, or collapse.

Without prompt veterinary treatment, paralysis tick cases can become fatal.

Daily tick searches are one of the most effective ways owners can help protect their pets.

Running your hands thoroughly through your animal’s fur over their entire body, including hidden spots like under the collar, between the toes, and inside the ears, can help detect ticks early.

Even with regular checks, however, ticks can be easy to miss.

That’s why the team at Tamborine Mountain Vet Surgery strongly recommend using tick prevention products year-round, especially during peak season.

There are a variety of preventatives available, including oral medications, spot-on treatments, collars, and a long-lasting tick, flea and heartworm injection product.

Contact the clinic for advice on which option is best for your pet’s lifestyle.

My pet has a tick how do I remove it?

If you ever find a tick, remove it immediately. Using your thumb and index fingers grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out with steady, even pressure.

Even if your pet seems well after removal, the effects of the toxin can continue to develop.

Prompt professional care can make all the difference in recovery. If you are ever concerned after the removal of a tick, don’t hesitate to contact the clinic.

At Tamborine Mountain Veterinary Surgery, the team has extensive experience treating paralysis tick cases and can recommend the most effective prevention strategies.

By staying vigilant and proactive, owners can greatly reduce the risk and enjoy the season with peace of mind.

The clinic also offers the Supertails Pet Wellness program, which makes preventative care more affordable with monthly payments starting from just $40.

Supertails includes essential treatments, check-ups and diagnostics to help catch health concerns early – keeping pets healthier and safer year-round.

Contact the team at Tamborine Mountain Veterinary Surgery to learn more and find the best parasite prevention for your pet.