Biosecurity's urging dog owners to get on top of their pets' flea and tick treatment

It's in light of the country's first case of a specific parasite in a Canterbury dog.

The dog was euthanised at the owner's request, after it become extremely unwell.

Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Mary van Andel says the parasite's often transmitted by ticks, which is why they're encouraging pet owners to make sure they are on top of treatments.

Although, she says dog owners shouldn't be alarmed -- as just one case has been detected so far.