Parasite Risks in Rural and Coastal Australia: What Pet Owners Can Do

Why rural and coastal areas raise the risk
Bush, farms and coastal scrub are prime habitat for fleas and ticks. Mosquitoes spread heartworm in many regions. Wildlife and feral animals increase exposure, and pets often roam through long grass, sand and waterways.

Rural risk overview

• Fleas and paralysis ticks in scrub and long grass.

• Worms from scavenging, hunting or raw offal.

• Kennel or working-dog setups with shared bedding and runs.

• Seasonal spikes after rain and warm weather.

Coastal risk overview

• High paralysis tick pressure in many east coast zones.

• Sand and boardwalk areas where fleas can hitch a ride home.

• Holiday parks and pet-friendly stays with mixed pet traffic.

• Warm, humid months with near year-round risk in some areas.

Choosing protection for dogs
Pick an application you can give on time, every time.

• Monthly, broad coverage chew for busy homes: Simparica Trio chewable tablet for dogs.

• Longer intervals to cut down dosing dates: Bravecto chew for dogs.
  Do daily tick checks in season, even when using prevention.

Choosing protection for cats
Outdoor and “mostly indoor” cats in risk areas still need cover.

• Broad monthly cover including ticks: Revolution Plus spot-on for cats.

• Fewer application dates across the year for flea and tick control: Bravecto spot-on for cats.

Simple habits that help

• Do hands-on tick checks nose to tail. Focus on head, ears, neck and between toes.

• Keep bedding clean. Vacuum cars and holiday rentals after trips.

• Rinse salt and sand from coats, then let spot-ons stay dry as per label.

• Use year-round prevention if you live in or travel to high-risk areas.

Safety basics

• Weigh your pet and use the correct pack every time.

• Use dog products on dogs only. Never use dog products on cats.

• Do not combine treatments unless your vet advises it.

• Keep spot-ons away from children and other pets until dry.

• Read the label each time and set reminders so you do not miss a dose.

When to see a vet

• Any wobbliness, vomiting, change in voice or breathing in tick season.

• Persistent itch, sore skin, or signs of worms such as weight loss or pot belly.

• If a dose is missed or vomited and you are unsure what to do next.

FAQ

Do indoor pets in coastal areas need protection
Often yes. Ticks and fleas can hitchhike indoors on people, pets and gear.

Are chews or spot-ons better near the beach
Both work well when used correctly. Chews suit swimmers. Spot-ons suit homes that prefer a quick skin application. Choose the option you can give on time.

Do I still need tick checks if I use prevention
Yes. Tick checks are a daily habit in season, even with prevention.

Need help choosing
Tell us your pet’s age, weight and routine and we will suggest a simple plan that fits your home. Contact us.