Introduction:

Living in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Newstead, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, and New Farm in Brisbane, Queensland, means enjoying an active outdoor lifestyle with our furry companions. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks that tick paralysis, heartworm, and intestinal worms pose to our beloved dogs. In this blog post, we will explore the dangers of these parasites, discuss diagnosis and treatment options, and highlight the importance of long-term preventatives such as the SR12 injection and Bravecto.

The Risks of Tick Paralysis, Heartworm, and Intestinal Worms:

1. Tick Paralysis: The paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) is prevalent in the coastal areas of Queensland, including Newstead, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, and New Farm. Tick paralysis can cause severe symptoms such as weakness, difficulty breathing, and even death if left untreated. Treatment has inherited risks and can be very costly.

2. Heartworm: Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites and can affect dogs of all ages. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and other serious complications. It requires long and costly treatment.  

3. Intestinal Worms: Dogs can contract various types of intestinal worms, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These parasites can cause weight loss, diarrhoea, anaemia, and other health issues if not addressed promptly.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

1. Tick Paralysis: Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of tick paralysis. If you notice any symptoms such as weakness, wobbliness, regurgitation, change in voice, respiratory distress or find a tick on your dog, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Treatment involves removing the tick, administering tick antiserum, and providing supportive care. The full recovery may take up to 2 weeks and many pets will not make it.

2. Heartworm: Diagnosis of heartworm disease involves a blood test to detect the presence of heartworm. Treatment can be complex and include a long course of antibiotics, steroids and medication to kill adult worms, as well as preventive measures to avoid further infection. The treatment is costly and not risk-free as many dogs may develop anaphylactic reactions or embolisms throughout the course of the treatment.

3. Intestinal Worms: Diagnosis of intestinal worms is typically done through a faecal examination. Treatment involves deworming medications prescribed by your veterinarian, which effectively eliminate the parasites.

The Importance of Long-Term Preventatives:

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your dog from these parasites. Two highly effective long-term preventatives available in Newstead, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, and New Farm are the SR12 injection and Bravecto.

1. SR12 Injection: The SR12 injection is a revolutionary long-lasting heartworm preventative that provides 12 months of protection against heartworm. Administered by a veterinarian, this injection eliminates the need for monthly treatments and ensures continuous protection for your dog.

2. Bravecto: Bravecto is an oral chewable tablet that provides three months of protection or a Spot-On application that provides six months protection against fleas and ticks, including paralysis ticks. It is a convenient and highly effective option for preventing tick paralysis and other external parasites.

Cost Considerations:

The cost of prevention and treatment can vary depending on factors such as the size of your dog, the specific product used, and the veterinary clinic you visit. While long-term preventatives like the SR12 injection and Bravecto may have a higher upfront cost, they offer significant value by providing extended protection and reducing the need for frequent treatment.

It's important to remember that the cost of prevention is often much lower than the cost of treating a parasite-related illness, which can involve extensive veterinary care and potential complications.

Conclusion:

As responsible pet owners in Newstead, Fortitude Valley, Teneriffe, and New Farm, it is our duty to protect our dogs from the risks of tick paralysis, heartworm, and intestinal worms. By understanding the dangers these parasites pose, seeking regular veterinary check-ups, and investing in long-term preventatives such as the SR12 injection and Bravecto, we can ensure our furry companions enjoy a healthy and parasite-free life. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to protecting our beloved pets.

If you are looking for long-term preventative options, check our Parasite Prevention Package. It will supply all the preventatives you need for a whole year.