Toxic paralysing tick warning for pets PET owners are being warned to check their pets for toxic and potentially paralysing ticks after three animals were treated in the past 10 days at one clinic in Perth. Paralysis ticks are not naturally found in Western Australia and are commonly found along the eastern seaboard, usually in scrub and long grass. The three cases presented to Murdoch Pet Emergency Centre (MPEC) were all dogs and cats that had recently travelled from the east coast, veterinary supervisor Jill Griffiths said. "We have had more pets present with paralysis tick poisoning in the last 10 days than we usually see in a year," Dr Griffiths said. This coincides with record numbers of paralysis tick cases in NSW and Queensland. Signs of tick intoxication include weakness, lack of coordination, gurgling, breathing problems, choking and a change in voice. "Tick paralysis can be fatal, so it is critical that pets are taken to a vet immediately if any symptoms are noted," Dr Griffiths said. Treatment includes tick anti-serum and intravenous fluids, and some animals need to be placed on a ventilator to help them recover, she said. When visiting areas where paralysis ticks are found, pet owners should check their animals every day by running hands all over their coat, including inside the toes, and looking inside the ears, Dr Griffiths said. "Paralysis can take up to three days to show signs, so it is important to be continually vigilant," she said.