Lyme disease, which is one of the most common diseases transmitted by ticks worldwide, is one that affects dogs and humans alike. The disease can cause death in both species if left untreated, so it is important that you check regularly for the blood-sucking pests that carry borrelia burgdorgeri, a type of bacteria that is commonly found in slow-feeding deer ticks that have hard-shelled bodies.
Lyme disease was first discovered in humans in the United States in the mid-1970’s. By the mid-1980’s, the first case was reported in dogs. However, DNA testing of available animal specimens proves that Lyme disease existed in Europe in the late 1800’s.
Not every dog that comes in contact with a deer tick will get Lyme disease. Infection occurs after a nymph or adult tick carrying the borrelia burgdorgeri bacteria has spent 18 hours attached to its host. Lyme disease is not spread by contact with infected animals or people.
Lyme disease has been found in all 50 states, but the upper Midwest states and the eastern coast of the United States are hot spots for the problem. This is quite possibly due to a high concentration of people and dogs living in those areas.
It is more likely that dogs will contract Lyme disease than humans because canines spend more time outdoors. Their bodies are closer to the ground and present an easy target for a hungry tick that will attach itself to thin-skinned areas of the dog’s body such as the face and stomach.
The symptoms of Lyme disease do not show up immediately. It can take two to five months after the tick has fed on the dog’s blood for symptoms to appear.
Symptoms can include fever, loss of appetite, lethargic behavior, reoccurring lameness, swelling of joints, depression, swollen lymph nodes and a cough. In extreme cases, kidney failure and heart disease have been reported. If your dog shows any of these symptoms – especially in a prolonged manner – contact his or her veterinarian immediately. Vets can perform a blood test to determine of Lyme disease is the problem.
Antibiotics are used to treat Lyme disease. A dog may have to take the medication for 30 days. The earlier treatment is started, the better chance the dog has of a full recovery.
When it comes to Lyme disease, prevention is one of the best ways to combat the disease. If possible, keep your dog out of areas that you know deer ticks frequent.
Daily grooming is vital in the fight against Lyme disease. Check your dog frequently for ticks. Remove them immediately by firmly pulling them off. You can also apply the tip of a heated match to the tick’s body. Covering the tick’s body with something greasy such as Vaseline will cause the tick to drop off of the dog’s body.
Dogs that spend a good deal of time outdoors can benefit from a Lyme disease vaccination. Talk to the dog’s veterinarian about the merits and dangers of the vaccinations.
There are many topical products available that can deter ticks from feeding on dogs. Consult the dog’s veterinarian for recommendations.
Related posts:
- Understanding Ticks
- Treating Your Lawn for Ticks
- What You Can Catch from Your Puppy
- Keep your Dog Free of Ticks
- Puppy Vaccinations Explored
