Vets warn pet owners that missing this ‘deadline’ for tick prevention could be deadly

Owners are being urged to check their paralysis tick prevention is up to date after multiple pets have had to be euthanised in the past week due to the deadly parasite.

Emergency vets at the Animal Referral Hospital in Gosford has treated several animals for ticks recently and warns the danger isn't over just because its autumn.

In fact, trees and bushland could be rife with paralysis ticks because of the recent rainfall and the warm start to autumn.

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“Unfortunately, every year we see people who either don't remember to give tick prevention or feel it is unnecessary in the winter months,” Dr Natashia Evans, Emergency and Critical Care Specialist, ARH Gosford tells 9honey Pets.

“Often pets that are euthanised are not presented until they are in extremis. Clients will not realise the seriousness of the signs that their pet is displaying and give the benefit of the doubt that their pet will improve without intervention.

“Most people are optimistic by nature and unfortunately with tick paralysis the longer you delay treatment the greater the likelihood is of a worse outcome.”

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Pet owners are encouraged to continue checking their furry friends for ticks daily and make sure their paralysis prevention is up to date, and even renewed a few days ahead of time.

“We're seeing cases of pets who have lapsed treatment by one or two days, make sure you have your reminders set,” Dr Evans said.

“I would always recommend giving a preventative a day or two before it is due. For example, if the product is labelled for 35 days give it on the first of the mouth. If the product is labelled for 28 days, give it on day 25. Put the date in your calendar so you remember.”

Dr Evans also had some money-saving tips for pet owners who might be delaying tick prevention in winter to save cash.

“Unfortunately, the treatment of tick paralysis is complicated, can be prolonged and has no guarantee of a good outcome. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” she said.

“I feel sympathy for people who may have to make hard decisions about what they can and cannot afford. I would recommend shopping around and look on the internet. Periodically tick prevention will go on sale for 40 per cent off or more. I know I stock up when I see this!

“You can also ask around for samples from your local vet – these may or may not be available but it never hurts to ask.”

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It's also important for pet owners to look out for symptoms of tick paralysis so they can get treatment as soon as possible.

Tick paralysis symptims include:

• Staggered walking, difficulty jumping

• Wobbliness, especially in the hind legs

• Weakness or lethargy

• Collapse

• Vomiting, gagging or retching

• Change in bark or meow

• Difficulty breathing

Fore more information on paralysis ticks and pets, click here.

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