The Paralysis Tick and the Brown Dog Tick are the two most common ticks on dogs. However, it is the Paralysis Tick that is by far the most dangerous. It causes paralysis in a variety of forms but typically starts with weakness of the hindquarters that progresses to total paralysis of all four legs.

Preventing tick paralysis is a much safer and cheaper alternative than treating the condition once it has occurred.

Ticks need humidity and mild weather to develop and will not survive and breed in cold climates. If you live in a tick-infested area you should examine your dog or cat for ticks on a daily basis.

Don't try to look for ticks, try to feel for them instead. Ticks are a lot easier to find if you rub your fingertips through your pet's coat rather than if you try to look for them.

There is still some debate on the best way to deal with a tick once you have located it. However, most veterinarians feel that you should not remove it. Instead, kill the tick while it is on your pet. Removing a tick while it is alive usually causes the angry tick to inject more toxin into your pet's body.

Use a fast acting insecticide applied directly to the tick. If you do not have a specific pet insecticide a quick knockdown household aerosol insecticide will do the job well.

Manufacturers are also releasing new products onto the market regularly to make the job easier and more reliable. Make sure your pet always wears a specific tick collar.