In summer we are all reminded of the increased risk of fleas and ticks affecting our pups. This summer we have already seen a couple of cases of Paralysis ticks on some Paddington Pups dogs.
Our staff recently saved the life of one of our regular daycare dogs by spotting a paralysis tick promptly removing it and rushing the dog to the vet. Thankfully this dog and the other the dogs have been taken to the vet in time and have bounced back well after the removal of the ticks and a little TLC. These incidents however have been a timely reminder of just how serious ticks can be. So we have decided to give you some information about the Australian Paralysis tick and suggestion on how you can keep your pup safe from ticks this summer.
The Australian Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus) has a poison in its saliva that can produce a progressive and sometimes even fatal paralysis in both humans and domestic animals. The Australian Paralysis Tick will attached itself to any warm-blooded animal whic
h brushes the foliage on which the tick is been patiently waiting. The tick’s commonest host is the bandicoot, but many other animals have suffered infestation. Dogs, in particular are often host to the tick. Once the tick has attached itself to the host, it will enlarge as it feeds from the host. At this occurs toxins may attack the host. In severe cases a host may even be paralysed after just a few days, death can even occur if the tick is not located and removed correctly within a few days.
Source: Sutherland J & Sutherland, S. (1999) Venomous Creatures of Australia, 5th Edition. Oxford Press.
In the warmer months of the year, when ticks are most common, it is important to check you dog regularly. You can do this by running your hands through your dog’s fur, touching the skin at all times if possible. Feel for any unusual bumps or swelling on the skin. Also check your dog’s ears, tail and paws as these are also common areas for ticks to be located. If you locate a tick on your dog, take your dog to the vet immediately for removal and observation. Ticks can be removed with tweezers however this most be done confidently, accurately and carefully as the whole tick must be removed in tact. If the tick is irritated by the removal or if the whole tick is not removed, the tick may inject a large dose of toxin into the host in protest.
There are several preventative measures you can to decrease the chances of your dog picking up a tick. Paddington Pups stocks tick collars and skin treatments, such as Advantix, which are designed specifically to deter ticks.
If you would like any further information or assistance with tick prevention methods, please talk our staff in store or phone us on 3369 0699.
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