Preventing and Treating Lyme Disease in Dogs

Lyme disease is a bacterial illness that can be passed on to humans, dogs, and other animals by certain types of ticks. The bacteria that is carried inside a tick can enter a dog or person’s bloodstream through a tick bite. The bacteria travels through the bloodstream to different parts of the body and can cause problems in specific organs or locations. We have created a guide to help you prevent and treat your dog from Lyme Disease.

Where Do Ticks Live?

The ticks that carry Lyme disease are likely to be found in tall grasses, thick brush, marshes, and woods. Ticks can’t jump or fly, they can only crawl. They wait to latch onto your dog when he passes by. A tick can transmit the disease once it has been attached to a dog for 24 to 48 hours.

Lyme disease happens in every state, but the infection risks vary. Over 95% of cases are from Northeast, the Upper Midwest, and the Pacific coast. Although with recent changes in deforestation, migrating deer and bird populations, percentage rates in these areas are constantly changing.

What are the Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs?

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Reduced energy
• Lameness (inability to properly use one or more limbs)
• Stiffness, discomfort, or pain
• Swelling of joints

Symptoms can progress to kidney failure, which can be fatal. Lyme disease is a fairly common canine disease, so its beneficial to be aware of the symptoms!

How are Dogs Tested for Lyme Disease?

For dogs, the two blood tests for diagnosing Lyme disease are called the C6 test and Quant C6 test. Both are performed by veterinarians.

The C6 test detects antibodies against a protein called “C6”. Presence of the antibodies suggests an active Lyme infection. The C6 antibodies can be detected three to five weeks after an infected tick bites a dog and may be found in the bloodstream before the dog shows signs of illness.

How is Lyme Disease Treated?

Treatment includes antibiotics for at least 30 days. This often resolves symptoms quickly, but in some cases, the infection will continue and prolonged medication may be needed. Treatment can also include therapies for relieving specific symptoms, like joint pain.

Can I Catch Lyme Disease From My Dog?

Lyme disease can’t be passed on from one pet to another, nor from pets to humans. However, a carrier tick could come into your house on your dog’s fur and get on you. If your dog is diagnosed with Lyme disease, its a good idea to consult with a doctor to see whether you should test other pets or family members.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Getting Lyme Disease?

These recommendations on preventing ticks come from AKC’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein:

• Inspect your dogs and yourself daily for ticks after walks through the woods or grassy areas. On dogs, look especially on the feet, between toes, on lips, around eyes, ears, inside ears, near the anus, and under the tail.
• Prevent ticks from jumping on your dog with one of the many veterinary-approved flea and tick products. Speak to your vet to find the best product for your dog.
• Remove ticks as soon as you find them. The quicker y0u find them the less likely your dog will get an illness.
• Ask your vet to conduct a tick check at each exam.
• Keep grass mowed a short as possible and refrain from walking into thick tall grassy patches.
• Get your dog vaccinated. Vaccination could prevent your dog from getting lyme disease. Discuss with your vet!

Lyme Disease can be hard to detect and can cause serious, ongoing health problems in both dogs and people. Being aware of the symptoms and prevention plans can be essential for you and your furry friend to live long and happy lives together.