Search results
In dogs, the most common signs include fever, loss of appetite, painful or swollen joints, lameness that comes and goes, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy. If Lyme disease is left untreated it can lead to damage in the kidneys, nervous system, and heart.
What are the signs of Lyme disease in dogs? Most dogs infected with Borellia bacteria will appear healthy, with no signs at all. This is different from infected people, about 90% of whom will become ill. In dogs that do become ill, signs of Lyme disease typically first show up 2-5 months after the dogs were first infected.
What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is caused by the spirochete (type of bacterium), Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick. Once in the bloodstream, the Lyme disease organism is carried to many parts of the body and is likely to localize in joints or kidneys.
Many dogs exposed to Lyme disease have no symptoms, but a smaller percentage develop disease signs and complications, including joint inflammation, lameness, fever, lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes. If this acute stage is mild and goes undetected, chronic disease can develop and cause life-threatening kidney failure.
In highly endemic regions, more than 70% of local adult blacklegged ticks carry B. burgdorferi, posing a significant risk to both canine and public health. This article discusses the basic epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Lyme disease in dogs in the United States.
The most common signs of Lyme disease include: Fever Lameness Lethargy Decreased appetite Joint swelling and pain Swollen lymph nodes A less common but serious complication associated with Lyme disease causes kidney damage (Lyme nephritis). This may be more likely in young-to-middle aged Retrievers.
Mar 20, 2024 · Lyme disease in dogs is a condition that spreads to pups through a tick bite. In this article, our vet experts explain the symptoms, treatment, and management for Lyme disease in dogs—and how pet parents can help their furry companion.
