One of the most common tick-transmitted diseases in the world is Lyme disease. Our vets in Poway share some symptoms to look out for if you're concerned that your pet might have Lyme disease.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease, which is most frequently transmitted by deer ticks, is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Borrelia. When an animal is bitten by an infected tick, the infection is transmitted. Ticks contract the disease by feeding on infected animals such as birds, mice, and deer.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is most frequently manifested in pets by lameness due to inflamed joints and general malaise or discomfort. Often, pets with Lyme disease exhibit a loss of appetite or depression.
A sensitivity to touch, difficulty breathing, and fever may also be signs that your pet has Lyme disease.
How can Lyme disease be diagnosed?
See your vet if you're concerned that your pet may have Lyme disease.
Your veterinarian will take a complete medical history of your pet and then perform a battery of tests on him or her, including blood tests, urine analysis, fecal examination, and x-rays. Additionally, your veterinarian may draw fluid from your pet's affected joints for Lyme analysis.
What happens if my pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease?
If your pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease, he or she will most likely be treated as an outpatient. Typically, your pet will be prescribed an antibiotic course lasting at least four weeks. If your dog is particularly in pain, your veterinarian may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory (pain medication for dogs).