Tick risk in Australia: where and when to protect pets
Introduction
Tick risk is not the same everywhere. Coastal and bushy areas of the east coast are well known, but pets can encounter ticks in other regions too, especially after warm, wet weather. Use the outline below to plan checks and prevention for your household.
Where risk is higher (general guide)
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East coast and hinterland: Queensland through New South Wales into eastern Victoria.
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Bushland and scrub: Edges of reserves, coastal tracks, and wildlife corridors.
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Warm, humid microclimates: Shady gardens, long grass, leaf litter, and kennels.
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Travel hotspots: Holidays to coastal or bush regions, camping trips, and visits to friends with large gardens.
Local conditions change. Ask your vet about current risk where you live and travel. If in doubt, protect before trips.
When risk is higher
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After rain and warm weather.
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During spring and summer in many regions, noting local variation.
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Around wildlife movement periods, when ticks are more likely in gardens and parks.
How to plan protection
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Use a proven tick product matched to species, age, and weight. Dose on time.
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Add daily hands-on searches in risk seasons or after hikes and beach trips.
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Keep grass short, trim dense shrubs, and avoid heavy scrub when possible.
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Set a phone reminder so you do not miss doses, especially when travelling.
Travel checklist
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Dose a few days before you go so protection is active.
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Pack your next dose if travel overlaps the due date.
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Do a full tick search each evening away and again when you get home.
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Wash bedding and vacuum the car after trips.
Products we trust
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Dogs: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs — monthly tick and flea control plus heartworm prevention and intestinal worms.
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Dogs: NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly tick and flea control; great for swimmers when used as directed.
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Cats: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly tick and flea coverage when used as directed.
Safety basics
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Dog products for dogs only. Never use a dog product on a cat.
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Match the weight band and minimum age on the pack.
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Some dog spot-ons advise keeping cats away from recently treated dogs. Follow label advice.
FAQ
We live inland. Do we still need tick prevention?
Discuss local risk with your vet. Many families travel to the coast or bush, which can expose pets even if home risk is low.
Should I switch products just for a holiday?
Often you can stay with your usual product if it covers ticks and you give it on time. If not, ask your vet about options.
What should I do after a weekend away in a risk area?
Do a full tick search that night and the next morning, wash bedding, and vacuum the car.
If you want help matching a product and schedule to your location or travel plans, our vet-led team can map it out with you.
