TICKS
Ticks are generally uncommon in metropolitan Perth. Brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), bush ticks (Haemaphysalis longicornis) and kangaroo ticks (Ornithodoros gurneyi) & ornate kangaroo ticks (Amblyomma triguttatum) may be found in semi-rural to rural areas, bushland and parks inhabited by kangaroos. Locally, kangaroo ticks may be found in bushland and parks around Joondalup. Fortunately for both owners and pets, Western Australia is free of the notorious paralysis tick (Ixodus holocyclus) that is found predominantly along the eastern coast of Australia.
Of all the ticks found in WA, the one with the most clinical significance is the brown dog tick - it is an important vector (or carrier) for two serious dog diseases that affect red blood cells, known as babesiosis and ehrlichiosis. These blood-borne diseases are uncommon in metropolitan Perth and occur more commonly in tropical and warmer climates of Australia. Ticks can be controlled long-term using monthly top-spot products available from our vet centres, they are Frontline Plus (for both dogs and cats) and Advantix (dogs only).
Just a quick take on Lyme Disease - Lyme Disease is a tick-borne zoonosis (i.e. animal disease that can be transmitted to humans) caused by the spirochaete bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to dogs and humans via tick bites and the disease is endemic in certain areas of Europe and the United States. Pending further studies, at this stage, there has been no conclusive studies to show that Lyme Disease actually exists in Australia or is transmitted by Australian ticks.
