Key Facts About Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs
Table of Contents
Lyme Disease
- In areas where ticks are common, nearly half may carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. That puts many dogs at risk, especially those who spend time outdoors. Although Lyme disease has been reported across the U.S., it’s especially common in the Northeast, upper Midwest, and along the Pacific Coast.
The bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi are transmitted through bites from black-legged ticks (also known as deer ticks) that remain attached for 24 to 48 hours. Once a dog is infected, their immune system forms antibodies, which is how Lyme is often diagnosed. But not all dogs show symptoms. Those who do may develop a fever, joint pain, shifting lameness, loss of appetite, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. Left unchecked, Lyme disease can lead to chronic issues like arthritis or even kidney failure.
Anaplasmosis
- Anaplasmosis is another tick-borne diseases. Like Lyme disease, the tick must stay attached for about 24 to 48 hours to transmit the bacteria. Signs of infection may appear one to three weeks after the bite but aren’t always visible.Â
When symptoms do appear, they typically include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Some dogs may also experience vomiting, diarrhea, swollen joints, and lameness. In rare cases, bleeding disorders, neck stiffness, and even seizures can occur.
Ehrlichiosis
- Ehrlichiosis is spread by brown dog ticks and lone star ticks. Unlike other tick-borne illnesses, this one can be transmitted within just 3 to 6 hours of tick attachment, making early tick removal crucial.
Signs can appear in as little as one week. Symptoms often include fever, lethargy, swollen joints, weight loss, pale gums, and bleeding from the nose or eyes. You might also notice bruising on your dog’s belly or gums. Inflammation in the eyes and blood in the stool or urine are other possible symptoms.
Practical Ways to Protect Your Dog from Tick-Borne Diseases
Follow these tips to keep your pet safe and prevent the risk of tick-borne diseases.
Make Your Yard Less Tick-Friendly
- Transform your outdoor space into a tick-unfriendly zone. Mow the lawn regularly and keep all shrubs well-trimmed. Routinely clear fallen branches and rake up leaves. Remove clutter, such as unused pots, toys, or debris, where ticks may hide.
Do a Full Body Check After Outdoor Time
- Each time your dog comes inside after being outdoors, inspect them thoroughly. Pay close attention to areas ticks love to hide, between the toes, inside ears, under the collar, and around the tail and belly. If you spot a tick, remove it immediately using tweezers or a tick remover tool, grasping it close to the skin and pulling steadily without twisting.
Consider Lyme Disease Vaccination
- While there’s no current vaccine for anaplasmosis or ehrlichiosis, vaccinating your dog for Lyme can be a key preventive measure, especially if you live in or travel to areas where Lyme disease is common.
Use Vet-Recommended Tick Preventatives All Year
- Year-round prevention is the most reliable defense against tick-borne illnesses. Whether it’s a chewable tablet, topical treatment, or collar, these products offer consistent protection when used as directed.
Routine Vet Visits Are Your First Line of Defense
- Because there are many types of ticks and several diseases they can transmit, staying proactive is essential. Wellness exams, vaccinations, and ongoing tick prevention help identify problems early before symptoms develop. The sooner you spot a tick or detect an infection, the better your dog’s chance at a full recovery.
Schedule regular veterinary assessments to prioritize your pet’s well-being. If your pet has health concerns, contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provide comprehensive pet care and strategies to promote optimal pet health. Contact us to get precise guidelines for your pet. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available. Call us at (434) 971-9800.
