Canine Tick Poisoning: Insights from Veterinarian Catherine Barnette, DVM, Reviewed by Certified Veterinary Technician Emily Oliver
Tick Paralysis in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
Dog owners need to be aware of the severe health risks posed by ticks, particularly tick paralysis. While tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease are well-known, they are not the only concern. Certain species of ticks can cause paralysis in dogs as a result of their toxin-containing saliva.
In the United States, tick paralysis in dogs is commonly caused by American Dog Ticks, Rocky Mountain Wood Ticks, Deer Ticks, or Western Blacklegged Ticks. It is essential to identify these ticks in order to prevent paralysis.
Tick Bite Paralysis in Dogs: A Closer Look
Tick paralysis in dogs is a form of canine paralysis caused by tick bites and resulting nerve damage. As ticks feed on a dog, their saliva containing toxins enters the dog's bloodstream, causing progressive paralysis. The early stages may exhibit subtle signs, but a dog suffering from tick paralysis will eventually lose the ability to walk, eat, and even breathe if left untreated.
Tick Paralysis: 4 Common Species to Know
- American Dog Tick: Adults are found primarily in the eastern United States and along the Pacific coast, with a brown body and white or gray markings.
- Rocky Mountain Wood Tick: Found at high elevations in the Rocky Mountains, these ticks are brownish-gray in color.
- Deer Tick: Found throughout the Eastern United States, with orange-brown bodies and black legs.
- Western Blacklegged Tick: Primarily found along the Pacific Coast, these ticks resemble the Deer Tick.
Tick removal is crucial to prevent paralysis and other tick-borne diseases. Ticks like to hide in dogs' skin folds and dark areas, so it is important to check these areas carefully when checking for ticks. When removing ticks, the entire tick, including its head, should be extracted to prevent mouthparts being left behind.
Symptoms: What to Look for in Your Dog
The symptoms of tick paralysis usually develop 3 to 5 days after a tick has attached to the dog. Early signs, such as weakness and incoordination, may be subtle but can progress rapidly. If your dog is showing signs of paralysis, such as difficulty walking, facial drooping, grunting on exhalation, trouble chewing, or difficulties breathing, seek veterinary care immediately.
Diagnosing and Treating Tick Paralysis
A thorough neurologic exam and clinical observations during tick removal will help veterinarians diagnose tick paralysis. There is no diagnostic test for tick paralysis, but immediate tick removal can usually lead to a rapid recovery. In severe cases, dogs may require hospitalization for IV fluids and breathing support.
Preventing Tick Paralysis in Dogs
Preventing tick paralysis means preventing ticks from feeding on your dog. Year-round flea and tick control is essential, with prescription preventatives being the most effective. The best tick control product will depend on the regional tick risks.
For instance, Revolution protects against the American dog tick, while Simparica TRIO protects against five species of ticks, making it the ideal choice in areas with a wide variety of ticks. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the best tick control product for your dog.
Sources:
- Favre, R. J., & Smith, R. I. (2011). "Tick-Borne Diseases of Dogs and Cats." Clinical Veterinary Advisor: Dogs and Cats, Elsevier.
- Scott-Moncrieff, J., & Hewlett, V. (Eds.). (2015). "Topics in Small Animal Practice." Wiley-Blackwell.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). "Tick-Borne Diseases Transmitted to Humans." Accessed on May 5, 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/index.html
- TickEncounter Resource Center. (2021). "Common Ticks - What Ticks Are Out There?" Massachusetts Washington State University, Accessed on May 5, 2021. https://www.tickencounter.org/tick-identification/tick-species-portraits
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2021). "Tick Paralysis in Dogs." Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Accessed on May 5, 2021. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-poison-control/zoo-animal-variables/tick-paralysis
Dog owners who prioritize health-and-wellness for their pets should included mental-health and lifestyle factors, such as preventing tick paralysis. Proactive measures like year-round protection against ticks can enhance a pet's wellbeing and overall lifestyle by reducing the risk of paralysis and tick-borne diseases. Different tick species, such as the American Dog Tick, Rocky Mountain Wood Tick, Deer Tick, and Western Blacklegged Tick, demand lifestyle modifications based on their regional prevalence, thus underscoring the need for pet owners to adopt tailored lifestyle approaches for their pet's health-and-wellness.
