HAVE you completed your spring and summer to do checklist yet? For pet owners, there may be one more important box to tick.
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is encouraging pet owners to talk to their local vets about ways to keep their furry friends from getting sick or dying due to toxic ticks.
The association's president Paula Barker said as the weather warmed up, dog and cat owners needed to be vigilant- especially in tick prone areas.
"Ticks breed mainly along the east coast of Australia in warm and humid weather, so now is the time for pet owners to ensure they take preventive measures to avoid what can sometimes be a fatal outcome," Dr Parker.
She added there were a range of products available for pet owners during tick season and urged them to speak to their local vets to determine the best method for their situation and pet.
"Paralysis ticks tend to latch on to the head and neck area of the pet and on the chest and the front of the leg, but can generally be found on any part of the body," she said.
"Ticks release a toxin when they feed, which leads to a condition known as tick paralysis."
She said common signs of tick paralysis included difficulty walking, gurgling, choking and dogs experiencing difficulty barking properly.
Dr Parker said ideally, pet owners should check animals regularly by running their hands over them to feel for anything unusual.
"In cats ticks often latch around the back of the neck where they can't groom, so it's important to pay special attention to this area."
She urged anyone who suspected their pet had a tick to contact their vet.
"Even if you find and remove a tick, it's still important that your pet is seen by a vet as your pet can be affected by the toxin for 24 hours after removal or longer."
"Early treatment gives the best chance of survival."
