Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the world. In this post, our Chino Hills vets share information about Lyme disease in pets: what it is, symptoms to watch for, and treatment options.
What is Lyme disease?
The bacteria borrella is carried by deer ticks and causes infectious Lyme disease, which is transmitted when ticks feed on infected animals such as deer, birds and mice. This infection is then passed to other animals when the infected tick bites them.
What symptoms of Lyme disease should I watch out for?
In our beloved pets, common symptoms of Lyme disease can include anything from malaise to depression, general discomfort, a lack of appetite or painfully inflamed joints.
Also beware of any fever, difficulty breathing or sensitivity to touch.
How can my vet diagnose Lyme disease?
If you suspect your pet may have Lyme disease, schedule an appointment with you pet as soon as possible.
During this appointment, your vet will work with you to gain a detailed understanding of your pet's medical history and will conduct a number of tests to provide a clear diagnosis. These can include blood tests, x-rays, urinalysis and fecal exams. We may also have to draw fluid from your pet's affected joints to check for signs of the disease.
What happens if my pet receives a Lyme disease diagnosis?
When diagnosed with Lyme disease, pets are usually treated on an outpatient basis. This will typically involve at least a four-week course of antibiotics, though your vet may also prescribe pain medication if the disease has made your dog especially uncomfortable.
How can I prevent Lyme disease?
Avoiding ticks as much as possible will go a long way to controlling and preventing disease. Sprays, monthly products and vaccines are available, although many work best before dogs are exposed to the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
Your vet may recommend appropriate boosters and vaccines if you live in an area where Lyme disease is common. You should promptly remove any ticks you find on your dog to help prevent Lyme and other diseases spreading. Though dogs will not directly infect people, our pets may bring infected ticks into the house, which may then attach to another person or animal and transmit Lyme disease.