Tick risk for dogs as disease decimates Northern Territory populations

Widespread outbreaks of ehrlichiosis, cause by a tick-borne bacteria, are being reported across the NT with the brown dog tick the main carrier of the disease.

"Anecdotally, thousands of dogs have acquired the infection, with significant numbers of deaths," said ehrlichiosis management co-ordinator Dr Megan Pickering.

"The impact of this disease on wild dog populations is currently unknown but dingoes that move into areas of human habitation to feed and/or breed are likely to be as highly susceptible to infection as domestic dogs.

"Initially the disease occurred in its acute form, where dogs present with fever and lethargy, are often off food, and may be lame, lose weight, have unusual bleeding and eye disease.

"(In its chronic form) the disease occurs months to years following an infectious tick bite, and the clinical signs are extremely severe and often fatal.

"The chronic form of the disease is associated with immune system failure, a slow wasting death, and is of significant concern with respect to animal welfare."

Dr Pickering said dogs with clinical signs of ehrlichiosis needed treatment with antibiotics with euthanasia recommended for dogs who did not respond to treatment.

Professional pest controller and NT Cattleman's Association representative on the National Wild Dog Action Plan Co-ordination Committee Adam Bowen said the full impact of the disease was not yet known.

"Older and young wild dogs in poor condition and with compromised immune systems could fall victim to the ticks," Mr Bowen said.

"The ticks can be found on their ears, neck, front legs and underneath their flanks where they can't groom themselves."

Four dogs brought into NSW from the NT have tested positive and one in Queensland in July.

Travellers need to be vigilant about tick-infested environments, including fuel stations and caravan parks.

For details on farm biosecurity around domestic dogs visit: //wilddogplan.org.au/agriculture/#