Emergency vets at the Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) in Gosford are urging pet owners to stay vigilant with parasite prevention, following a sharp rise in paralysis tick cases.
In recent days, the team at ARH Gosford has put multiple pets on ventilators and has also had to euthanise numerous cats and dogs due to the severity of tick paralysis.
Veterinary Director at ARH Gosford Dr Tamsyn Bradley said with the warmer weather, case numbers were rising every day.
Warmer weather and recent heavy rainfall have created ideal conditions for ticks and vets are reminding owners that prevention is essential year-round.
“Prevention is not only safer for pets, but also far more cost-effective than an ICU stay,” Bradley said.
“We’re seeing cases of pets who have lapsed treatment by one or two days; make sure you have your reminders set.
“Even giving your pet their prevention treatment a couple of days early will ensure that they’re continually protected.
“We also want to encourage Aussie pet owners to check their pets every day for ticks.
“A few minutes spent gently running your fingers through their fur for any bumps which will be the tick, a wound or area of swelling that may be a crater where a tick was previously attached can save a potentially life-threatening situation.”
Pet owners are also encouraged to be aware of tick paralysis symptoms which include: staggered walking or difficulty jumping; wobbliness, especially in the hind legs; weakness or lethargy; collapse; vomiting, gagging or retching; change in bark or meow; and difficulty breathing.
If a pet owner suspects their pet may have a tick they should contact the team at ARH Gosford on 4323 3886.
To find your nearest emergency vet visit www.emergencyvet.com.au
Pet owners are also encouraged to regularly check pet parasite threat levels and hotspots at www.petbarn.com.au/petwatch.
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