Tick paralysis is real: Less common with effective tick prevention
Ask the Vet
Q: A friend from Florida was telling me that his Lab got ‘tick paralysis’ earlier this summer. I thought he was joking, but he said it was real. I have never heard of this- should I be worried for my dog? I have a Lab, too.
~ J.L., Lenoir City
A: Unfortunately, tick paralysis is real. With the advent of new and more effective tick prevention over the past 10 to 20 years, we see tick paralysis far less commonly.
Tick paralysis is just as it sounds. Some species of ticks can carry a protein with a neurotoxin in their saliva. After the tick bites, the tick attaches to the host (dog). The neurotoxin is then transmitted as the tick continues to feed and become engorged.
Clinical signs can take 4 to 10 days to develop, depending on the species of tick and the amount of neurotoxin present. Seasonality can be a factor too, as spring and summer tend to have higher rates of tick activity.
Affected dogs become weak and ataxic in the rear end, and signs quickly can involve the front legs. Clinical signs progress to paresis (severe neurological weakness) and eventual paralysis. Untreated, dogs can begin having difficulty breathing and swallowing, as those muscles also become weaker.
Treatment and prognosis are much improved with early intervention and treatment. Finding all ticks and removing them entirely is key. If tick paralysis is suspected and ticks are not found, veterinarians often will prophylactically treat with medication to kill ticks quickly. Affected dogs often are hospitalized, as they are dehydrated and need supportive care, such as handfeeding and help with urination and defecation. In severe cases, kidney and heart complications have been reported.
We do have ticks year round in East Tennessee, and year-round protection is recommended. Options include a topical, monthly chewable or a chewable that lasts three months. Please talk to your veterinarian about which prevention is right for your dog.
If you have questions about your pet, please email Dr. Myers at lenoircityanimalclinic.com
