Tick that causes bleeding, loss of appetite and potentially death to dogs found in northern SA

A dangerous tick that has the ability to kill dogs has been discovered in South Australia.

A dog-killing tick has been discovered in South Australia for the first time.

The tick carries ehrlichiosis, a disease that, in dogs, causes abnormal bleeding, lethargy, loss of appetite, pain, weight loss, and can lead to death.

Ehrlichiosis was detected by researchers who were examining ticks in dogs from the APY lands between May and June last year. It was found in dogs in northern areas of Western Australia and the Northern Territory earlier last year.

The SA find has prompted a call for dog owners to be hyper-vigilant.

South Australian chief veterinary officer Mary Carr said though the ticks were unlikely to make their way to metropolitan areas, dog owners should keep an eye on their pets.

“The best way to prevent your dogs from this disease is by talking to your vet about either maintaining or starting a tick preventive program,” Dr Carr said.

Dog owners should check their pets for ticks regularly. Picture: iStock

“The Far North regions are where dogs are at the highest risk, so if you live in, or travel in and out of these regions, you should be taking extra care.”

Vets must report any incidents of the tick to the national Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline.