With the coming of summer, veterinarians from UQ`s Small Animal Clinic and Teaching Hospital have been inundated with pets suffering from tick paralysis.
Although paralysis ticks can occur year round, their peak period is spring and summer when warm weather combines with periods of rain.
Paralysis ticks normally infest native Australian animals, but can also cause problems when they infest livestock, domestic pets and humans.
The paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is found along the majority of the eastern coast of Australia and is especially prevalent in the southern and western suburbs of Brisbane.
With an estimated 20,000 domestic animals paralysed every year in Australia, tick prevention has become a major focus for vets and pet owners alike.
UQ Professor of Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery, Professor Gail Anderson is encouraging all pet owners to be aware of the potential danger associated with the summer season and the increased prevalence of ticks.
"We encourage all pet owners to be aware of the threat that can fatally paralyse their cats and dogs," Professor Anderson said.
"Pets are primarily exposed to ticks when they traverse thick scrubby bushland, but unkempt suburban backyards can also provide a habitat for ticks.
"By keeping backyards clear of unnecessary vegetation and debris, pet owners can reduce the risk to their pet. Not frequenting areas where grasses are overgrown will also decrease the risk of infestation."
Vital warning signs for impending paralysis include loss of appetite, lethargy, altered bark or meow, coughing, retching, gagging or vomiting, groaning or grunting, altered breathing, and wobbliness or weakness in the limbs.
Professor Anderson is urging pet owners to take notice of these crucial warning signs. "Should owners notice any of these signs in their pets, they should contact their veterinarian immediately," she said.
If untreated, paralysis ticks can cause loss of the reflexes that protect the pet from inhaling food and water leading to aspiration pneumonia and possible death.
It is extremely important to conduct a tick prevention search daily. Ticks found and removed early are much less likely to cause serious injury to the pet. Ticks can often be difficult to find, even when fully engorged.
The most common sites of attachment are around the head and neck, under the arms or collar but they can attach anywhere on the skin. Pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about tick preventative drugs and strategies. There are good topical products and collars that can decrease the risk of infestation.
Tick paralysis kills but treatment is available. Should owners find a tick on their pet, they should seek veterinary advice. For 24 hour assistance call the University of Queensland Small Animal Clinic and Teaching Hospital (07) 3365 2110.
Media: Further information, Susanne Schick, 074 601 229.
