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By Brittany Jacks
MSU Ag Communications
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Dog owners may be surprised to find out that certain ticks can paralyze their beloved pets.
These tick species carry a nerurotoxin that affects the mobility of
animals. If the animal is not treated, their limbs may become
paralyzed.
The Dermacentor tick species is among those that
infect dogs with a neurotoxin that can paralyze them if left untreated.
(Photo by Thinkstock.)
Dr. Andy Shores, clinical professor and chief of neurology and
neurosurgery in the Department of Clinical Scienes at the Mississippi
State University College of Veterniary Medicine, said the toxin affects
the function of the motor neurons that control movement. The toxin is
usually released five to seven days after the tick attaches.
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