Canine Lyme Disease

What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?

Named after the town in Connecticut where the outbreak was first discovered, Canine Lyme Disease (aka lime disease) is contracted by tick bites usually by the Deer Tick.

Ticks do not actually cause the disease, but they carry the bacteria which causes the infection.

The scientific name for this bacteria is Borrelia burgdorferi.

What Causes Lyme Disease in Dogs?

There are three known species of ticks that can transmit the disease. But, the majority of cases come from a very tiny tick commonly called the Deer Tick (Ixodes scapularis) or Black-legged Tick.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Symptoms of lyme disease in dog can take from 2-5 months to appear. The early signs in dogs are lack of appetite, fever and lethargy. But your dog can show any of the following signs:

Depression
Fever - temperature of 103 or higher (101- 102.5 is normal)
Some dogs do not develop a fever
Lethargic behavior
Limping from pain in the leg(s)
Loss of Appetite
Lymph node swelling (usually in the affected limb)

Without treatment, it can damage joints, kidneys (glomerular disease), heart muscle and nerve tissue. In rare cases, dogs may develop aggressive behavior, heart disease, renal issues and seizures.

Treatment

The most common treatment is antibiotic medication.

Is My Dog At Risk?

Canine Lyme Disease has been reported in every state. But, there are certain regions that are more likely to harbor bacteria-carrying ticks than others.

It is common (or endemic) in the following areas:

High Risk

East coast (North Carolina to Maine - risk appears to be greater the farther north you go)
New Hampshire
Pennsylvania

Moderate Risk

California
Illinois
Iowa
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Oregon
Wisconsin

All other states are lower risk.

Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs

There are three vaccines approved for Canine Lyme Disease. But, none of them are 100% effective. And they are not without risk. If you live in an area considered high risk, be sure to discuss the pros and cons of the vaccine with your trusted vet.

Topical medications have had decent success in keeping dogs safe from ticks. Frontline Plus and K9 Advantix are a couple of preventative measures. They are applied topically and spread through the skin's oil layer. Be aware that Revolution does not protect your dog from ticks, including the dreaded deer tick.

Do not use over-the-counter flea and tick medications found in the store. They may be cheaper, but the risks (and vet bills) are just not worth it.

Above all, be aware that ticks and other parasites have less effect on healthy animals. Make sure you are feeding your German Shepherd a quality dog food.

Return from Canine Lyme Disease to Common Dog Health Problems

The information and products recommended by german-shepherd-lore.com are not intended to take the place of expert veterinarian care. Please consult with your vet and ask about using a natural and alternative approach for the healthcare and treatment of your pet. Find a holistic vet.

The Shepherd Guide