I would like to share an important public service announcement for all pet owners in the Lake
City area.
This week, we nearly lost Hamlet, Mary Nettleton’s beloved guide dog. Hamlet suddenly
developed weakness and paralysis in his hind legs. Initial testing, including bloodwork and
spinal X-rays, was completely normal, leaving us without an obvious diagnosis. Over the next
several days, his condition worsened, progressing to involve his front legs until he was unable
even to sit up.
Fortunately, we eventually discovered the cause: a female tick embedded deep in his skin.
Once the tick was removed, Hamlet began to improve rapidly. Today, he took his first steps again
and is expected to make a near-complete recovery!
In my 36 years of veterinary practice, this is the first case of Tick Paralysis I have personally
encountered. This includes years of practice in regions of the country where ticks are far more
common than they are here. In rare cases, certain species of female ticks produce a neurotoxin in
their saliva that can cause progressive paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death if the tick is
not found and removed.
What is particularly surprising is that this occurred here in Lake City, despite our high altitude
and generally dry climate. Hamlet does not roam in the backcountry; the tick was most likely
acquired during Mary’s walks along Silver Street.
Check your dogs daily for ticks, especially during the warmer months. Consider using tick
preventive, such as Simparica, NexGard, or Bravecto.
And remember to check yourselves as
well, since ticks can transmit diseases to humans as well.
Sincerely,
Linda Downs, DVM
Lake City
