Lyme disease is a significant concern for dog owners, particularly in areas where ticks are prevalent. In West Michigan, the issue has become an epidemic. Big Lake Animal Clinic reported that by July 16th, they had already had 29 lyme positive tests on the dogs coming to their clinic.
Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease is transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick, which makes up ~70% of ticks in Michigan). Understanding the symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options is crucial for keeping your canine companion healthy.
Symptoms to Watch For
Lyme disease can present a range of symptoms in dogs, and not all of them are immediately obvious. Common signs include:
Lameness - Often shifting from one leg to another, which may be accompanied by joint pain or stiffness.
Fever - Elevated body temperature can be a sign of infection.
Swollen Joints - Inflammation of the joints can cause noticeable swelling.
Loss of Appetite - A sudden drop in interest in food can indicate illness.
Fatigue - Affected dogs may seem unusually tired or lethargic.
If the disease has gone on long enough, a condition called “Lyme Nephritis” (Inflammation and subsequent death to the nephrons of the kidneys, caused by Lyme Disease), can cause urine changes (frequent urination, dilute urine, etc.), permanent kidney damage and even death.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to consult with your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
Prevention is Key
Preventing Lyme disease starts with minimizing tick exposure. Here are some effective strategies:
Tick Prevention Products, A First Line of Defense - Use vet-recommended tick preventatives, such as topical treatments like Vectra 3D, or the Seresto collars. Oral preventions can still get the job done, but they require your pet to be BITTEN by the tick before the product is ingested and enters their bloodstream. We prefer to avoid the bite altogether so, for this reason, our first recommendation is to stick with topical products that kill ticks on contact! Be mindful of the requirements for upkeep on the topicals, whether that be soap-free shampoo when bathing, or keeping the collar snug against their skin. #vectra3d #serestocollar
Vaccination - In areas where there is a high exposure to Lyme Disease (Like West Michigan!), vaccination for Lyme Disease is highly recommended. We have been vaccinating for Lyme Disease for over ten years, and now it is exceedingly rare to see a positive in our own, vaccinated patients. The positives that we do see are new dogs without any previous care, or patients coming from other vet offices that still don’t believe Lyme Disease is a pressing issue (which happens more than we’d like). We recommend combining the vaccine with topical prevention for maximum protection!
Regular Tick Checks - Conduct routine tick checks after walks or outdoor play, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Even with flawless tick prevention application, there may occasionally be one tough tick that sticks on long enough to be an issue. It doesn’t always mean your prevention isn’t working, it just means one tick managed to tough it out (as opposed to the 99 ticks your prevention blocked!)
Maintain Your Yard - Keep your yard well-maintained by trimming grass and removing leaf litter where ticks might thrive. Or, alternatively, keep out of the long grass on walks or trails.
Treatment Options
If a dog does contract Lyme disease, prompt treatment is crucial. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics, such as doxycycline, to combat the infection. Most dogs respond well to treatment and recover fully, especially if the disease is caught early. *Unlike in people, Lyme Disease in dogs can be cured! (though they often will show up positive on tests for a few months/years). In severe cases, additional supportive care might be needed to manage symptoms.
Conclusion
Lyme disease is a manageable condition with the right precautions and timely treatment. By staying vigilant about tick prevention and seeking prompt veterinary care if symptoms arise, you can help ensure that your dog remains happy and healthy. Regular check-ups and preventative measures are key to safeguarding your furry friend from Lyme disease and keeping those tails wagging!
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