Lyme disease in dogs - What you should know

Lyme disease in dogs: What you should know

Lyme disease – at first, it sounds like one of those diseases that makes you wonder, "Don't humans get it too?" Yes, indeed, Lyme disease can affect not only us, but our dogs as well. It's transmitted by ticks, and since ticks are notoriously not dogs' best friends, it's important to know what this disease means for your dog and how you can protect him from it.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi . This bacterium enters the dog's body through the bite of an infected tick. In most cases, however, the disease only becomes a serious problem when the tick remains attached to the dog's skin long enough to transmit the bacterium.

The unique thing about Lyme disease is that not every dog ​​bitten by a tick actually becomes ill. Many dogs that come into contact with the bacteria show no symptoms at all. But for some, it can lead to serious health problems.

How do I recognize Lyme disease in my dog?

The symptoms of Lyme disease aren't always immediately apparent, and they can overlap with other illnesses. But here are a few signs to look out for:

• Limping or lameness : One of the most common signs is that your dog suddenly starts limping. One-sided lameness, in particular, can be a sign of Lyme disease.
• Fever : Your dog may suddenly develop a high fever.
• Fatigue and loss of appetite : As with many other diseases, Lyme disease can manifest itself through general weakness or lack of energy.
• Pain when touched : Dogs with Lyme disease are often more sensitive to pressure or touch, especially in the joints.

In severe cases, inflammation may also develop in the kidneys or other organs, which can further complicate the disease.

How is Lyme disease diagnosed?

If you suspect your dog may have Lyme disease, you should consult a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian can perform a blood test to determine if the dog has come into contact with the Borrelia bacteria. However, this doesn't always immediately confirm the disease—sometimes an infection can lie dormant for years without causing any symptoms.

A Lyme disease diagnosis is usually based on a combination of blood tests, clinical signs, and the dog's medical history (for example, whether the dog has recently been in an area with a high number of ticks).

How do you treat Lyme disease in dogs?

Good news: Lyme disease can be successfully treated in most cases. Treatment is usually with antibiotics that fight the bacteria in the dog's body. Treatment usually lasts between three and four weeks, and most dogs make a full recovery within this time.

If Lyme disease is detected early, the prognosis is very good. However, there are also cases where the disease has more serious effects on the joints or organs, which may require longer or more intensive treatment.

How can you protect your dog from Lyme disease?

Prevention is key, and there are several ways you can help your dog protect himself from tick bites:

1. Tick ​​repellents : There are a variety of products available—from spot-ons and tick collars to tablets and supplements—that repel ticks. You can discuss which product is suitable with your veterinarian.
2. Regularly check your dog for ticks : After every walk, especially in wooded or grassy areas, you should check your dog thoroughly for ticks. Pay particular attention to the neck, ears, between the toes, and under the armpits.
3. Vaccination against Lyme disease : In some countries, a vaccination is available that can protect your dog from the effects of Lyme disease. While this vaccination does not prevent tick bites, it helps reduce the severity of the disease if the dog comes into contact with the bacteria.

4. Tick-free environment : You can also try to minimize the risk by keeping your dog's environment tick-free – by regularly mowing the lawn and removing leaves and weeds from the garden.

Lyme disease does not have to be dramatic

Lyme disease is a serious illness, but with proper prevention and prompt treatment, most dogs can handle it without any problems. Ticks may be unpleasant, but they're not the end of the world—especially if you take regular preventative measures.

The most important tip: Pay attention to possible symptoms and take your dog to the vet immediately if you suspect a tick bite. The sooner you act, the better the chances of getting everything under control quickly and easily.

So stay calm and relaxed—you can do your dog a lot of good by keeping him tick-free and visiting the vet regularly. This makes a huge difference in keeping your dog fit and healthy!