17/08/2026
🐾 As we head into peak paralysis tick season, knowing where ticks are most likely to hide can make a real difference.
For pets affected by a paralysis tick, finding and removing the tick as quickly as possible is critical. The longer a tick remains attached, the longer your pet can be exposed to the toxin — so a thorough tick search is essential.
This infographic is from a recent study published in the Australian Veterinary Journal, which looked at where paralysis ticks are most commonly found on dogs and cats. It found that certain areas of the body are more likely to harbour ticks than others, giving pet owners a useful starting point when checking their pets.
🔎 When checking your pet, pay particular attention to:
• Around the head and neck
• Inside and around the ears
• Between the toes
• Around the mouth and lips
• Under the collar or harness
• Around the armpits and groin
• Between the legs and other areas where ticks can be easily missed
⚠️Importantly, don't rely on finding a tick to tell you whether your pet is protected.
If they develop signs such as a change in bark, weakness, wobbliness, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty breathing or collapse, seek veterinary attention immediately. Paralysis tick disease can progress rapidly and is an emergency.
At Ballina Coast Vets, we're always happy to show you how to perform a thorough tick search and discuss the best tick prevention options for your pet 🐕🐈💗
