PET owners are being warned to be vigilant in checking their cats and dogs for ticks after several pets have died from tick paralysis over the past month.
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Ticks are the most dangerous parasite on the South Coast and veterinarian Paula Roberts has seen first-hand how ruthless they can be to pets.
“This past week I have had six cases of pets affected by ticks and last week we had 12 cases,” Dr Roberts said.
“We are only half way through October, the ticks have been bad for the last couple of months but this is now peak season.”
Ticks are more prevalent between August and December when they breed but are around all year.
Dr Roberts believes the most important step pet owners can take is prevention with two simple steps.
“First daily checking for a tick is the most important step,” she said.
“Look your cat or dog over every day and make sure long-haired dogs have their hair short to make searching easier.
“Then use preventative medicines that are available on the market for cats and dogs.
“It’s important that you do both steps
and not just rely on medicines.”
Symptoms of tick paralysis are loss of co-ordination, change of bark or voice, coughing, vomiting excessive drooling, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing and abnormal behaviour.
Dr Roberts suggests that if pet owners see any changes in their animals, they should have it checked out immediately, as quick action gives the best chance of recovery.
“It’s very important for pet
owners to realise that the sooner they start treatment the better chance of survival their dog or cat has,” Dr Roberts said.
“If you leave it till they have difficulty breathing, it is often very hard to recover from that stage.
“Normally you will notice the hindquarters give way first and they might behave as if they have been sedated.”
Check out the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner website for a video guide by Dr Roberts on how to check your pet for ticks.
