A Danger Unique to Our Coast
The Australian Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is found right along the eastern seaboard from North Queensland down to Victoria. Unlike standard bush ticks, a single bite from a paralysis tick injects a neurotoxin that can be fatal to dogs and cats within days.
1. The Subtle Early Signs
The first symptom isn't usually a limp. It starts with a change in their "voice"—a dog's bark will become hoarse, or a cat's meow will sound raspy. This is followed by retching, vomiting, and a notable weakness in their back legs causing them to wobble when they walk.
2. The "Search and Destroy" Habit
No preventative chew is 100% perfect, especially if they vomit it up. During tick season (Spring through Autumn), you must perform a daily "tick check." Walk your fingers deeply through their coat, especially around the neck, behind the ears, under the collar, and between the toes. Ticks feel like small, hard warts.
💡 Pro Tip
If you find a tick, do NOT pull it off with your bare fingers, as you may squeeze more toxin into the pet. Use a proper tick hook or tweezers at the skin level. Keep the pet calm and immediately head to the vet for Tick Antiserum.