Tick paralysis is a potentially fatal condition in dogs caused by neurotoxins injected by certain tick species, requiring rapid diagnosis and tick removal.
Tick paralysis causes severe progressive disability. Affected dogs experience weakness, inability to walk, difficulty breathing, and distress from neurological dysfunction. Intensive nursing care including turning immobile patients, preventing aspiration pneumonia, and managing anxiety is critical. Recovery can take days to weeks, during which maintaining comfort and reducing fear are important welfare priorities.