Decoding the Tick’s Threat: Understanding Lyme Disease, Stages, and Treatment

Ticks are tiny blood-sucking parasites, but the threat they pose for your canine companion is anything but small. They are more than annoying pests, as they can transmit potentially dangerous diseases and Lyme disease is one major disease they can cause. This bacterial infection, caused by the bite of infected black-legged ticks leads to a range of issues, from discomfort and weakness to heart and kidney issues. Plus, if not treated timely, it can be deadly for your dog.

In this informative blog, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of Lyme disease and cover everything from the fundamentals and different stages to diagnosis and treatment. We’ll also cover some valuable preventive measures to keep your beloved dog protected against this deadly disease.

Let’s get started!

What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?

Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis is a bacterial disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. The culprit behind this potentially deadly disease is black-legged ticks (Deer ticks), as this bacterium is transmitted to dogs by this tick bite.

Typically, these ticks become infected with Borrelia burgdorferi, when they feed on infected rodents and birds. When these infected ticks feed on dogs, they transmit the bacteria, infecting the dog.

However, it’s crucial to remove the ticks at the earliest, as the ticks need to be attached for at least 24 to 48 hours to pass on the infection. Lyme disease, if left untreated, can become chronic and cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and nervous system.

Let’s understand this better in the following segment.

What Are the 3 Stages of Lyme Disease?

In this segment, we’ll walk you through the different stages of Lyme disease in dogs and the symptoms of this illness.

Stage 1: Early Localized Infection

The initial stage begins with the infected tick transmitting the bacterium into the dog’s bloodstream. At this stage, you may not see any symptoms, but a localized skin reaction at the site of the bite may be visible. This reaction could appear as a small, red bump or rash.

It is often subtle and may even go unnoticed in dogs with thick fur. Additionally, in the initial stage, it’s difficult to diagnose Lyme disease with a blood test, as the dog’s immune system may not have yet produced enough antibodies.

Stage 2: Early Disseminated Infection

By this stage, if the bacteria are not eliminated by the dog’s immune system, they begin to spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. You may start noticing clinical signs such as lameness, fever, weakness, decreased appetite, pain and swelling in joints, and discomfort around joints when touched. The disseminated stage ranges between a few weeks and months post-tick bite, before it becomes chronic, leading to severe health issues.

Stage 3: Late Persistent Infection

If the Lyme disease infection is not detected and treated, it continues to develop into a potentially dangerous condition. In this stage, you will notice symptoms, including weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and inflammation in the kidneys. In severe conditions, it may impact the heart and nervous system and can become life-threatening.

Being aware of these stages and symptoms will allow you to take prompt action and get your dog the help they need.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Lyme Disease

The treatment of Lyme disease begins with a proper diagnosis by a professional vet. They will inquire about your dog’s medical history and the current symptoms. For further examination, they may do a few tests, such as blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal exams.

Typically, for the treatment of Lyme disease, professionals recommend an antibiotic course of doxycycline as per the severity of the condition. They may also suggest painkillers to reduce the joint swelling and discomfort and further support the treatment. Additionally, they may recommend a suitable flea and tick treatment to keep the parasites at bay.

Here are some popular treatments that you can use, after consulting with your vet, to effectively prevent Lyme disease in dogs.

Simparica Trio

Simparica Trio is a broad-spectrum oral treatment designed to protect dogs against a range of parasites. These monthly chews treat and control 6 tick species, including black-legged ticks (deer ticks), and help prevent Lyme disease.

Frontline Plus

Frontline Plus is a potent topical treatment for dogs with Fipronil and (S)-methoprene as the active ingredients. This fast-acting, monthly treatment effectively treats and controls deer ticks that may transmit Lyme disease.

Nexgard

Nexgard is a beef-flavored chewable treatment formulated with Afoxolaner as the active ingredient. These easy-to-administer chews are indicated for the treatment and control of black-legged ticks and therefore, indicated for the prevention of Lyme disease.

Active Measures to Prevent Lyme Disease

With the following preventive measures, you can keep the threat of Lyme disease at bay and save your pet from a great deal of discomfort.

• Maintain regular visits to the vet.
• Regularly inspect your dog and yourself for ticks.
• Groom your dog regularly and brush their hair.
• If ticks are visible, promptly remove them using tweezers.
• Avoid heavily wooded areas when out for walks.
• Use a flea and tick treatment recommended by your vet.
• Maintain your lawn and regularly mow the grass.

Final Words

Well, this marks the end of our expedition through the ins and outs of Lyme disease. Remember knowledge is your best defense. So put the information covered in this guide to good use and keep your dog protected against the dangers of Lyme disease. Good luck!