We are almost out of winter and heading into the warmer months that bring out the ticks each year. Some information to help keep your pets safe this tick season starts with being vigilant with preventatives and pet checks.

Why Ticks Are Dangerous to Pets

Paralysis toxins: The paralysis tick produces a potent neurotoxin that can cause progressive paralysis—including respiratory failure—and may be fatal if not treated promptly

Symptoms to watch:

Weakness in hind limbs progressing to full paralysis. Changes in voice—such as a different bark or meow. Vomiting, retching, excessive drooling. Laboured breathing, coughing, risk of aspiration pneumonia. Eye issues, difficulty blinking, bladder dysfunction

Without timely intervention, paralysis ticks can be deadly

Prevention & Early Detection

Daily checks are vital:

Inspect your pet every day, especially after outdoor time. Focus on areas like the head, ears, underarms, groin, between toes, tail base, and neck folds. Use fingertips to feel for small lumps or “craters” indicating recent tick attachment.

Use appropriate tick prevention products:

Consult your vet to choose species-safe, vet-approved preventatives (dog-specific products for dogs, cat-safe ones for cats). However, even pets on preventatives can still get ticks—making daily inspections indispensable

Avoid high-risk areas during peak season:

Skip bushy, scrubby walks where ticks lurk. Keep backyard shrubs trimmed and manage wildlife-attractor areas

What to Do If You Find a Tick or Spot Symptoms

Seek vet care immediately, even after removal (if the tick has been removed) —because the toxin remains active in the body and symptoms can worsen before improving.

Stabilization and treatment: The vet may administer antiserum, supportive care (oxygen, IV fluids), monitor for complications like aspiration pneumonia, and hospitalize if necessary.

Prognosis:

Many pets recover fully within days if treated quickly. Severe cases—especially with respiratory distress—require intensive care and have a higher risk of fatality. The sooner you get medical care the quicker treatment and professional care can be administered!