What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Lyme disease or Lyme borreliosis is one of the diseases caused by ticks and is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. Although it is more common in certain regions of the United States and Europe, it can affect dogs, and its symptoms can be very painful if an early diagnosis is not made.
Causes and Transmission of Lyme Disease in Dogs
The main cause of Lyme disease in dogs is the bite of infected ticks, primarily four species: Ixodes scapularis and I. pacificus in North America, I. ricinus in Europe, and I. persulcatus in Asia. These ticks are commonly found in wooded areas and tall grass. Dogs can contract the disease when walking or playing in these areas without proper protection.
Transmission between ticks
is mainly transstadial,
as transovarial transmission is rare.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
The symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs can vary, but the most common include:
- Fever: An increase in the dog’s body temperature.
- Lethargy: Lack of energy and activity.
- Loss of appetite: The dog may show disinterest in food.
- Lameness: Joint inflammation, causing difficulty walking.
- Pain and swelling: In the affected joints.
Less frequently, neurological signs, heart block, kidney damage, and uveitis may be observed.
Lyme Disease in Dogs: Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs generally includes a physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. Serological tests can detect antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi. Additionally, some PCR tests can identify bacterial DNA in blood or tissue samples.
The preferred diagnostic method in both dogs and humans is a dual analysis using ELISA and Western blotting for confirmation. The presence of antibodies against B. burgdorferi in experimentally infected dogs can be detected by ELISA at 4-6 weeks post-infection and for at least 17 months.
The SNAP 4Dx® test component from IDEXX Laboratories is unique because it directly targets the antibodies produced in the spleen cells of an animal infected with Borrelia burgdorferi. Therefore, it provides veterinarians with the ability to determine whether a dog has antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi that are produced in response to an active infection rather than vaccination.
Treatment of Lyme Disease in Dogs
The main treatment for Lyme disease in dogs is the use of antibiotics, with doxycycline being the most commonly prescribed. The treatment usually lasts several weeks, and in many cases, dogs show significant improvement within a few days. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment to prevent relapses.
| Medicine | Dose | Treatment time | Preferential uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doxycycline | 10 mg/kg – PO route | every 12h / 30 days | Early illness, arthritis or neurological manifestations. Not recommended for puppies |
| Amoxicillin | 20 mg/kg – PO route | every 8h / 30 days | neurological manifestations. For young patients |
| Azithromycin | 5mg/kg – IV route | every 12h /10-30 days | Early disease |
| Penicillin G | 15 mg/Kg or 15,000 IU/kg of procaine penicillin G and 12.5 mg/Kg or 15,000 IU/kg for benzathine penicillin G) By subcutaneous injection | The treatment should be repeated after 72 hours. Repeated injections should not be placed in the same previous site. | Persistent arthritis, neurological or cardiac manifestations |
| Ceftriaxone | 20mg/kg – IV or SC route | every 12h / 14-30 days | Late neurological or cardiac manifestations, permanent arthritis |
| Cefotaxime | 5mg/kg – IV route | every 8h / 14-30 days | Neurological manifestations |
| Chloramphenicol | 15-25 mg/kg – IV or SC route | every 8h / 14-30 days | Neurological manifestations |
Preventing Lyme Disease in Dogs
Prevention is key to protecting dogs from Lyme disease. Some preventative measures include:
- Use of repellents and acaricides: Topical products or collars that repel or kill ticks.
- Regular inspections: Check dogs after being outdoors.
- Vaccination: There are available vaccines that can reduce the risk of infection.
- Environmental control: Keep the grass short and avoid tick-infested areas.
Preventing Lyme disease is crucial to maintaining the health of dogs and avoiding long-term complications. Vaccination, along with the use of antiparasitic products and regular inspections, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
FAQs
Should my dog be vaccinated against Lyme disease?
Vaccination is recommended in areas where Lyme disease is common. Consult your veterinarian about the best option for your dog.
What should I do if I find a tick on my dog?
Remove the tick carefully using tweezers and disinfect the area. Monitor your dog for any symptoms of illness and consult your veterinarian if necessary.
Conclusions
Lyme disease is a serious condition that can severely affect dogs if not treated properly. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, dogs can recover and lead a healthy life. Prevention, through vaccination and tick control, is essential to protect our furry friends from this disease. Stay informed and consult with your veterinarian to ensure the best protection for your dog.
