Tick Paralysis Is A Rare But Serious Condition Caused By A Neurotoxin In The Saliva Of Certain Species Of Ticks

Tick paralysis is rare. It can cause extreme harm to your dog. The saliva of a paralysis-causing tick species contains a neurotoxin that leads to paralysis. Symptoms include weakness in the hind-limbs, difficulty breathing, and high blood pressure. Tick paralysis is a rare but serious condition caused by a neurotoxic toxin in the saliva of certain species of tick. The Australian Ixodes holocyclus tick causes the most severe paralysis. The symptoms of tick paralysis in dogs are wide-ranging and will worsen if the tick is not removed. Only 40 tick species can cause tick paralysis. Tick attacks are found in Australia, North America, Europe, and South Africa. Most cases of paralysis are reported between April and June when the tick comes out of its winter home. Routinely check your dog for tickles, especially in places where paralysis-cusing species are prevalent. Until paralysis symptoms improve, your dog should be hospitalized or kept in your veterinarian's office. The only way to prevent tick paralysis is to prevent it spreading. About 5% of dogs may die from tick paralysis . Check your pet for tick tickles frequently, consider an anti- tick medication and closely monitor your dog. . . .