Flea and Tick Control

Flea Control

Fleas can be distressing for your pet, however they are more than just a nuisance. Fleas can cause skin disease and transmit infectious or parasitic diseases, some of which can be transmitted to humans too. In some dogs, fleas can also trigger an allergic condition called flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), a skin disease that is intensely itchy and can result in hair loss and skin infections. In dogs with FAD, even a small number of fleas can cause intense irritation, meaning year-round flea control is essential!

The most common way pets pick up fleas is from the environment. Fleas rarely jump from pet to pet. Pets can pick up fleas from a walk, playing in the dog park, at the beach or even in the backyard. 

Spotting fleas isn’t always easy – they are small and fast, and some dogs can show signs of severe itchiness and irritation when only a few fleas are present. The other thing to consider is that the adult fleas you see on your dog are only part of the problem. You may be surprised to learn that adult fleas (the ones you see) make up only about 5% of the total population. The remaining 95% (eggs, larvae and pupae) are found in carpets and bedding - in fact anywhere in your house! Each female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day so it doesn’t take long for an infestation to take hold.

It is important to remember that fleas aren’t just a problem in the summer. Use flea control all-year-round. You, and your pet, will be happier for it.

Tick Control

The most common ticks infesting dogs in Australia are the paralysis tick, the brown dog tick, and the bush tick.

Paralysis ticks

 

The paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is one of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet. Tick paralysis is estimated to affect tens of thousands of dogs and cats per year in Australia, with many animals dying. The greatest risk is associated with high numbers of adult ticks in spring and summer, but disease can be seen throughout the year. Paralysis ticks are found on the east coast of Australia, from northern Queensland to Victoria. We recommend Bravecto® or Simparica Trio® for reliable protection against paralysis ticks, but are happy to discuss other products with you to ensure your pet receives the most effective tick prevention.

How does the paralysis tick cause toxicity?

After the tick has attached to the host animal it sucks blood and then secretes a toxin that can cause severe illness, or even death, in cats and dogs. Dogs and cats of any age can be affected.

Signs of tick paralysis include: loss of coordination in the hind legs (wobbly or not being able to get up) which may progress to the front legs, change in bark, retching, coughing or vomiting, loss of appetite, or laboured or rapid breathing. Any of these signs may indicate the presence of a paralysis tick. If your dog shows any of these signs you should seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Tips for reducing the risk of tick paralysis include:

  • The year-round use of effective tick control products for all dogs and cats that are living in, or travelling to, known paralysis tick regions.
  • Search your dog daily for ticks - although tick control products will greatly reduce the risk of tick paralysis, it only takes one tick to cause tick paralysis. For this reason, it is important to also perform daily tick searches on your pet.
  • Reduce exposure to ticks in the environment (e.g. clean up leaf litter and debris, minimise or restrict your pet’s access to bushy environments)
  • If you find a tick, remove it immediately, and seek veterinary attention


Brown Dog Ticks and Bush Ticks: More Than Just a Nuisance

While brown dog ticks and bush ticks do not cause tick paralysis, they can still pose significant health risks to your pets.

Health Risks

  • Skin Irritation: Ticks can cause redness, itching, and discomfort at the bite site.

  • Babesia Infection: These ticks can transmit Babesia parasites, which invade red blood cells and can lead to severe anaemia in dogs. In serious cases, this can be fatal if not treated promptly.

  • Ehrlichiosis: Ticks can also transmit Ehrlichia bacteria, leading to Ehrlichiosis. This disease can cause fever, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal bleeding, and blood abnormalities. If left untreated, it can progress to a chronic stage, making it harder to manage and potentially life-threatening.

Prevention and Care

Protecting your pet from ticks is essential to prevent these diseases. Key steps include:

  • Regular Tick Checks: Inspect your dog daily, especially after bush walks or outdoor activities.

  • Tick Prevention Products: Use veterinarian-recommended products such as Seresto collars, which provide long-lasting protection against ticks and fleas. Other topical or oral preventatives may also be advised depending on your dog’s lifestyle.

  • Prompt Tick Removal: If you find a tick, remove it carefully using a tick removal tool and consult your vet if your pet shows any signs of illness.

Early detection and prevention are crucial in keeping your pets healthy and happy. Don’t let ticks put your furry friends at risk—protection is easier than cure.

We are more than happy to recommend appropriate tick control products for your pet. Please call us to discuss.