Lyme disease & pets

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1. Lyme Disease and Pets: What You Need to Know

Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, most commonly the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick). While Lyme disease is often discussed in relation to humans, pets, especially dogs, are also at risk of contracting the disease.

In pets, particularly dogs, Lyme disease can cause a range of symptoms, though not all pets will show signs. 

Common symptoms (not limited to) include:

• Lameness: Often affecting one or more joints, lameness can come and go, and may shift from leg to leg.
• Fever: Pets may develop a fever, which can be a sign of infection.
• Fatigue: Dogs with Lyme disease may seem unusually tired or lethargic.
• Loss of Appetite: Pets may show a reduced interest in food and water.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes may become enlarged as part of the body's immune response.
• Kidney Issues: In some cases, Lyme disease can lead to kidney damage, which may result in vomiting, increased thirst, and changes in urination.
• Hair Loss or Thinning: - While not a direct symptom of Lyme disease, hair loss or thinning could occur in some animals as a result of chronic illness, stress, or secondary infections (like fungal or bacterial infections) that could follow a weakened immune system due to Lyme disease.

It's also important to note that while Lyme disease does not cause skin lesions, ticks can transmit other diseases (co-infectors) that may affect the skin, such as Ehrlichiosis or Anaplasmosis. These diseases may result in symptoms like skin rashes, but they are not caused by Lyme disease itself.

Ticks become infected with the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria when they feed on infected animals, such as deer, rodents, and other wildlife. Once a tick is infected, it can transmit the bacteria to pets during a blood meal. A tick must be attached for at least 24 to 48 hours to transmit the bacteria, but the longer the tick remains attached, the higher the likelihood of infection.

Preventing Lyme disease in pets is largely about tick control and reducing exposure to ticks:

1. Tick Prevention Products: There are several tick preventatives available, including topical treatments, collars, and oral medications. These products can help repel or kill ticks before they can transmit bacteria.
2. Regular Tick Checks: After outdoor activities, check your pet for ticks, especially in areas like the ears, paws, and underbelly, groan & bum. 
3. If you find a tick, carefully remove it  using a tick removal tool.  Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Do not pinch or crush the tick, as this could release harmful bacteria into the bite. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as that can cause parts of it to break off and remain in the skin. After removal, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

            4. Save the Tick

• It's a good idea to save the tick in a container (such as a small jar or a plastic bag) in case you need to have it identified or tested later. If you're concerned about the tick transmitting Lyme disease or other infections, you can send it to a lab for testing.

Test your tick: https://geneticks.ca/submit-a-tick-for-testing/?gad_source=1

              5. Avoid Tick-Infested Areas: Limit your pet's exposure to tick-heavy areas, such as tall grasses, wooded areas, and places with                    high deer populations.

             6. Vaccination: In some areas where Lyme disease is common, a Lyme disease vaccine may be recommended for dogs. While this vaccine doesn't guarantee full immunity, it can help reduce the risk of serious infection. 

If you suspect your pet has Lyme disease, it's important to consult a veterinarian. The vet will typically perform a blood test to detect antibodies to the Borrelia bacteria. In some cases, additional tests may be needed to assess kidney function, especially if your pet is showing signs of kidney damage. Treatment for Lyme disease usually involves antibiotics, such as doxycycline, to target the bacteria. Most pets respond well to treatment, but some may require longer courses of medication if symptoms persist. If kidney damage has occurred, more intensive treatment may be necessary.  BIE may also be affective when dealing with Lyme disease and co-infectors. 

Lyme disease can affect pets, especially dogs, causing joint pain, fever, and, in severe cases, kidney problems. By using tick prevention methods, regularly checking for ticks, and working with a veterinarian to monitor your pet's health, you can reduce the risk of Lyme disease and ensure your furry companion remains healthy and happy. If you suspect Lyme disease, early detection and treatment are key to a positive outcome.