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For many Australian pet parents, the first of the month is a reminder to reset routines — bills, calendars, to-do lists.

But there’s one thing that must never be forgotten, even when the weather cools down:

Tick checks.

Because despite what many people believe, paralysis ticks are still being found in veterinary clinics — right now. Fully fed. Dangerous. Sometimes deadly.

Paralysis Ticks Don’t Follow the Calendar

A common myth among pet owners is that tick season “ends” once summer fades.

Unfortunately, that’s not how paralysis ticks work.

In Australia, especially across coastal and bushland areas, ticks remain active during warm spells, mild winters, and transitional seasons. Even a few warm days can trigger activity — and one missed check can be all it takes.

Veterinary clinics continue to report cases of paralysis ticks well outside peak summer months, often in pets whose owners thought the risk had passed.

Why Paralysis Ticks Are So Dangerous

Paralysis ticks release a toxin that affects the nervous system. As the toxin spreads, symptoms can escalate quickly.

Early signs may include:

• Weakness in the back legs

• Wobbliness or unsteady walking

• Change in bark or meow

• Lethargy or difficulty swallowing

If left untreated, paralysis ticks can cause:

• Complete paralysis

• Breathing failure

• Emergency hospitalisation

• In severe cases, death

This isn’t rare. And it isn’t dramatic.
It’s a real, ongoing risk for Australian pets.

The Hard Truth: Prevention Isn’t Seasonal

Tick prevention isn’t just about medication — it’s about daily habits.

Even pets on tick preventatives can still pick up ticks, and checks are the safety net that catches what treatments can’t.

Tick checks should happen:

• Every day

• After walks

• After bush, park, or garden exposure

• Even if your pet “never goes anywhere”

Ticks are excellent hitchhikers. They don’t need a bushwalk invitation.

Where to Check Your Pet (Don’t Skip These Spots)

Ticks love warm, hidden areas. Always check:

• Behind and inside ears

• Under collars and harnesses

• Around the neck and chest

• Armpits and groin

• Base of the tail

• Between toes

Run your hands slowly over your pet — feel for small lumps, not just visible ticks.

If something feels off, trust your instincts and contact your vet immediately.

Why We’re Talking About This on the 1st of the Month

Because routines save lives.

Linking tick checks to a monthly mental reset makes them harder to forget — and easier to stick to.

⏰ Tick tick. New month. New reminder.
Check your pet. Every day.

If this post makes you pause, rethink, or feel slightly uncomfortable — that’s okay. It means the message landed.

Share This With a Pet Parent Who Needs the Reminder

Tick paralysis is preventable — but only if we keep talking about it.

Share this post with:

• New pet owners

• “She’ll be right” friends

• Anyone who thinks tick season is over

Because sometimes, a reminder is all it takes to save a life.