Lyme disease is a severe illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted to dogs through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. This disease can have severe and even life-threatening consequences if left untreated, making it essential for pet owners to understand the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods of Lyme disease in dogs.
What is Lyme disease or canine borreliosis?
Canine borreliosis, also known as Lyme disease, is caused by bacteria. Borrelia burgdorferi is a spirochete spread by the genus Ixodes tick. This disease has been detected in dogs since 1984, and it was first found in Spain in 1992.
Canine borreliosis is serious, although it is treatable with medication with an early diagnosis. The clinical picture it presents includes several health problems but is primarily associated with:
- Arthritis Deformation of joints
- Carditis
- Nephritis
- Fever
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Dogs can contract Lyme disease from the bite of an infected tick. The onset of symptoms can occur as soon as two days after the tick bite, but in some cases, the symptoms may not present until much later. This disease is known for the wide range of symptoms it can cause, and it’s important to note not all dogs will display all of them. Some dogs may only show isolated signs, such as lameness, while others may show multiple or most symptoms associated with the disease.
One of the most frequent symptoms is recurrent lameness caused by inflammation in the joints. The lameness may last a few days but can return weeks later, sometimes switching between legs or even affecting multiple legs. Along with lameness, dogs may also experience joint inflammation and deformation, fever, loss of appetite, and depression. It’s worth noting that these symptoms often stem from joint inflammation.
In addition to these symptoms, other symptoms may include:
- An arched back.
- Sensitivity to touch.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Weakness.
- General need for movement or response.
In the area where the tick bite occurred, there may be inflammation and irritation, along with inflammation of the superficial lymph nodes surrounding the area. If left untreated, kidney problems can occur, leading to severe conditions like nephritis or glomerulonephritis, ultimately resulting in kidney failure. Kidney failure causes vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, lack of appetite, excessive thirst and urination, or fluid accumulation in the abdomen and tissues, especially under the skin and in the legs.
While less common, in severe cases, dogs may also experience inflammation of the heart or complications in the central nervous system. Pet owners need to be aware of the potential for these serious complications and seek immediate treatment if their dog displays Lyme disease symptoms.
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Diagnosis of Lyme Disease in Dogs
We must discuss our dog’s symptoms with the veterinarian when we visit. We should also provide information about recent activities, whether or not they are a habit and any previous health problems. Along with all this information, the veterinarian will need to perform tests on the dog to rule out or confirm possible causes of the symptoms. They will execute a complete blood and urine analysis.
If the veterinarian considers it appropriate, they will perform other diagnostic tests. For example, they may be interested in the following:
It extracts fluid from inflamed joints for analysis and performs ultrasound and x-rays. This illness is favorable for chronic patients if detected and treated early. Still, it could be terrible if it affects the heart, central nervous system, or kidneys, especially if it does not execute any treatment.
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Treatment of Lyme Disease in Dogs
The treatment for Canine borreliosis will depend on the affected organs and parts of the body and how advanced the condition is. First, the vet should treat with antibiotics. In addition, at home, we must ensure that our friend makes little effort and stay warm and dry.
The antibiotics for Lyme disease in dogs that our trusted veterinarian recommends must be mixed with some pain medication. Still, we should only administer an analgesic medication to our dog with help. Always let the specialist veterinarian prescribe the type, dose, and duration of administration.
The specialist veterinarian should avoid administering and prescribing corticosteroids, as there is a risk of the spread of Borrelias (Borrelia burgdorferi) in this case.
Usually, with antibiotics, acute inflammation of the joints improves within a few days. Even so, the general treatment should last at least one month. However, all this will depend on the severity of the disease.
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Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs
The best way to prevent Lyme disease in dogs is through tick control. That includes using tick preventatives, such as medicated shampoos, sprays, and oral medications, and regularly checking your dog for tick bites.
Vaccination is also an effective prevention method. Talk to your vet about whether vaccination suits your dog, and keep the dog updated with their vaccinations. Also, keeping the dog inside or on a leash in tick-infested areas can help prevent tick bites.
It’s also important to remember that Lyme disease is contagious to humans, so it is essential to take precautions to protect yourself and your dog.
In conclusion, Lyme disease is a severe illness that can have serious consequences for dogs if left untreated. Pet owners should be aware of this disease’s causes, symptoms, and prevention methods to protect their furry companions. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to Lyme disease, consult your veterinarian immediately.
FAQ about Lyme Disease in Dogs
How long does it take for symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs to appear?
Lyme disease symptoms in dogs can appear anywhere from 2 to 5 months after the tick bite.
Can Lyme disease in dogs be transmitted to humans?
Lyme disease cannot be transmitted directly from dogs to humans. However, humans can contract the disease from tick bites and may get infected if a dog carries an infected tick.
Are certain breeds of dogs more susceptible to this disease?
All breeds of dogs are at risk of contracting Lyme disease. However, some breeds may be more susceptible to tick bites due to their long hair or habits.
Can this disease in dogs be transmitted to other animals?
Lyme disease can be transmitted to other animals, such as cats, but this is rare.
What are the long-term effects of this disease in dogs?
The long-term effects of Lyme disease in dogs include chronic arthritis and kidney disease.
Is it possible for a dog to have Lyme disease but not show symptoms?
Yes, a dog can have Lyme disease and not show any symptoms. That is known as subclinical Lyme disease.
Is there a vaccine available to prevent Lyme disease in dogs?
Yes, there is a vaccine available to prevent Lyme disease in dogs. It is recommended for dogs at high risk of exposure to ticks.
Can Lyme disease be treated at home in dogs?
Lyme disease should be managed under the care of a veterinarian. While some moderate instances may be treated at home, more severe cases may require hospitalization and rigorous therapy.
Can dogs be affected by chronic Lyme disease?
Dogs, just like humans, can be affected by chronic Lyme disease, a form of Lyme disease that can persist for months or years, even after the initial treatment. Recurrent or persistent symptoms and relapses are common.