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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mar 19, 2024 · Lyme disease in dogs is transmitted by the black-legged tick, which can infect your pet with a type of bacteria, called Borrelia burgdorferi. Once it enters your dog’s bloodstream, this spiral-shaped bacterium most commonly affects their joints and kidneys, but it can spread throughout the body. What Are the Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs?
When Lyme disease does occur in a dog, it is typically a mild lameness (that may shift from leg to leg) and fever. Lameness most commonly develops 2 to 6 months after the dog is bitten by an infected tick. Lyme disease is most common in the northeastern coastal states and the upper Midwest of the USA.
