Better pets

Spring is here and so is tick season!

PREVENT AND PROTECT

In Australia the biggest tick threat is the paralysis species. So in addition to a year-round tick-prevention regimen using oral or topical meds or a collar, stay on top of your garden upkeep, as ticks prefer damp areas, tall grasses and shrubs.

WHERE TO LOOK

On dogs, ticks are commonly found in their ears, ear folds, the corners of their eyes, on the neck, between their toes and on the body and legs. On cats, the prime spots are the face and neck, but also look under their tail and between their paw pads. Also make sure you part your pet’s fur during your tick checks, which should be performed daily.

FOUND A TICK?

The longer the tick stays attached, the higher the risk of transmitting disease. Signs of a tick usually start to show about 72 hours after attachment, but if you are regularly checking, you may find it earlier. Use tweezers or a tick-removing tool (sold in pet stores) to remove the entire tick without crushing or twisting it; leaving any part of the tick could cause an infection. Also call your vet, who may start your pet on an antibiotic to ward off any chance of a tickborne illness developing. If your pet is showing signs of illness, including lethargy, joint swelling, breathing difficulties, looking wobbly on their feet or limping, see your vet immediately.