Lyme Disease in Dogs: 5 Things Pet Owners Should Know

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1. Ticks carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease

Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterial agent that causes Lyme disease, is one of the most common infections transmitted by ticks, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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1. Ticks carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease

Following transmission from an infected blacklegged (or deer) tick, Borrelia burgdorferi travels to different parts of a dog’s body and can cause problems.

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2. It can take time for your dog to show signs

Dogs with Lyme disease can experience an array of signs, including joint pain, swelling and fever. Dogs may not show signs of illness for weeks or months after an infected tick bites them – and many dogs that are infected never show signs of illness.

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2. It can take time for your dog to show signs

Fortunately, some tests can determine if a dog has been infected, though it can take up to nine weeks for some tests to show positive results. Signs of Lyme disease depend on the progression of the initial infection.

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2. It can take time for your dog to show signs

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pet owners should watch for these signs: • Fever • Swollen joints and limping • Loss of appetite • Lethargy and/or depression • Kidney problems

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3. Veterinarians can test your dog for Lyme disease

Lyme disease can be difficult to diagnose, and infection can be difficult to detect in dogs. The AVMA encourages pet owners to consult a veterinarian for testing, care and treatment of dogs that may have Lyme disease.

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3. Veterinarians can test your dog for Lyme disease

A veterinarian may perform blood tests to detect the presence of antibodies to the bacterial agent of Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi). He or she may conduct additional tests to help diagnose infection and determine whether the infection has affected a dog’s kidneys.

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4. Lyme disease is a year-round risk, depending on where you live

Contrary to popular belief, the risk of acquiring the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease is not only a “summer time” or “warmer weather” threat. The potential for infection exists in almost any month, provided the ingredients of weather, temperature and infected ticks are present.

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4. Lyme disease is a year-round risk, depending on where you live

It can be a year-round issue, according to the Companion Animal Parasite Council. The council encourages pet owners to protect dogs all year long.

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5. Prevention is the best way to protect dogs

Prevention is the best way to keep your dog safe from acquiring Borrelia burgdorferi, the agent that can cause Lyme disease. Pet owners should perform regular preventive checks by looking through their dog’s fur.

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