Lyme Disease Threatens Man’s Best Friend
Veterinarians emphasize that while people often worry about Lyme disease transmitted by ticks, they should also be vigilant about protecting their pets from this potentially dangerous illness.
Experts from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech note a concerning trend of increasing vulnerability to Lyme disease among dogs across the United States. Previously, Lyme disease was primarily associated with the northeastern region, but now cases have been reported in 39 states, highlighting the widespread risk to dogs. Infected ticks, particularly black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks, pose the greatest threat, thriving in tall grasses and wooded areas.
Dogs are most at risk of contracting Lyme disease during the early spring and late fall when adult ticks are most active. However, infections can occur year-round, underscoring the importance of year-round prevention efforts. Clinical assistant professor Jenny Marin, from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Virginia Tech, explains that symptoms in dogs may include fever, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, and changes in appetite and thirst.
Untreated Lyme disease in dogs can lead to severe complications, including kidney, nervous system, and heart damage, as well as chronic joint pain. In particular, kidney damage can be fatal, while nervous system damage may result in seizure disorders.
Diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs involves testing for antibodies produced by the body in response to infection. Antibiotics are the primary treatment, typically administered over a month-long period. However, completing the entire course of treatment is crucial to prevent disease recurrence and reduce the risk of complications.
Prevention remains the most effective approach, with vaccines available to protect dogs against Lyme disease, alongside various tick prevention products. Marin emphasizes the importance of vaccination and tick prevention measures in safeguarding pets against Lyme disease and minimizing their exposure to infected ticks.
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