How to Check Your Pet for Ticks (and What to Do if You Find One!)
Ticks love our warm Gold Coast climate — and with paralysis ticks around, a quick daily check can be life-saving. Below is my simple nose-to-tail routine, what to do if you find a tick, and how to keep your pet protected year-round.
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Quick Daily Tick-Check Routine (Nose-to-Tail)
- Head & face: lips/gums, under chin, eyelids and around eyes.
- Ears: inside the flap and behind the ears.
- Neck & collar line: under collar, between shoulder blades.
- Body: run fingertips through coat in good light; part fur every few cm to see the skin.
- Legs & paws: between toes, under paw pads; check armpits and groin.
- Tail & under the tail: base of tail and around the anus/vulva/prepuce.
Tip: Make it a habit — link checks to your evening cuddle or after walks.
If You Find a Tick: Do This
- Remove it promptly: use a tick remover or fine tweezers; grasp close to the skin and pull straight out.
- Save the tick: put it in a small container or tape to paper so we can identify it.
- Watch for symptoms (24–48 hrs): wobbliness/weakness, voice change, vomiting, fast or laboured breathing — call us immediately if any appear, even after removal.
- Unsure about “the head”? If mouthparts remain, it may cause local irritation; come in and we’ll check and clean safely.
Emergency cues: sudden weakness, trouble standing, vomiting, or breathing changes after a tick = urgent vet care.
Prevention: Your Best Defence
The simplest way to protect your pet is continuous prevention. Options range from monthly to 12-month cover — including a single year-long injection for dogs that covers fleas, ticks and heartworm. Ideal for busy families (or pets that hate tablets) and pairs perfectly with your daily tick check.
Book annual tick injection Dogs must be over 6 months for the 12-month injection; we’ll confirm suitability at your visit.
Why Prevention Matters So Much
Prevention saves lives — and costs less
Treatment for tick paralysis is over 100× more expensive than prevention — and even with intensive care, pets can die from paralysis ticks. The safest plan is simple: year-round prevention + a daily check.
FAQs
- How do I tell a paralysis tick from a bush tick?
- It’s tricky — size, colour and leg placement differ. Keep the tick and bring it in and I’ll identify it.
- Will the head stay in if the mouthparts break?
- Small pieces can remain and cause local irritation. If you’re unsure, come in for a quick check and clean.
- Do indoor pets need prevention?
- Yes. Ticks hitchhike on clothing and other pets. Indoor cats and small dogs are still at risk.
- If I check daily, do I still need prevention?
- Yes. Daily checks + prevention = best protection, especially against paralysis ticks on the Gold Coast.
Final thoughts: Daily nose-to-tail checks are a tiny habit that makes a huge difference. Combine them with year-round prevention and fast action if you find a tick to drastically reduce the risk of paralysis tick poisoning.
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