Exotic tick disease fears for NT dogs

FEARS an exotic tick-borne disease could be spread among pet dogs have been raised after it was found in a small number of dogs in the NT.

The disease ehrlichiosis, an exotic tick-borne dog disease, has been confirmed in a small number of dogs in Katherine and in a remote settlement west of Alice Springs.

FEARS an exotic tick-borne disease could be spread among pet dogs have been raised after it was found in a small number of dogs in the NT.

After being found for the first time in Australia in Western Australia’s Kimberley Region, ehrlichiosis has been confirmed in some dogs in Katherine and a remote settlement west of Alice Springs.

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Department of Primary Industry and Resources chief veterinary officer Dr Suzanne Fitzpatrick said prevention was the best protection for dogs, given vaccinations were not available.

“All dog owners are strongly encouraged to have their dogs on a tick control program … and be on the lookout for signs of the disease,” she said.

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Signs can include fever, lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, bleeding disorders, and, if not properly treated, death.