Canine Ehrlichia is a disease primarily transmitted through the bite of a tick that affects dogs. This bacterial infection can cause a variety of symptoms and, if not treated in time, can be fatal. In this article, we will explore in detail what Canine Ehrlichiosis is, how it is transmitted, its symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatments, and prevention strategies.
Preventing Canine Ehrlichia
- Regular Tick Control:
- Inspect pets regularly, especially after they have been in areas infested with ticks.
- Use dog accessories such as special tick combs.
- Preventive Products:
- Apply topical treatments or antiparasitic repellent collars that repel and kill ticks.
- Administer oral medications prescribed by veterinarians that provide continuous protection.
- Environmental Management:
- Keep the grass short and the environment clean to reduce tick habitats.
- Avoid areas known to be infested with ticks during tick season.
- Conduct different types of fumigation, especially in summer, when tick reproduction is at its highest.
Transmission of Canine Ehrlichia Disease
The main route of transmission of Canine Ehrlichiosis is through the bite of the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) when infected. The ticks acquire the bacteria by feeding on an infected animal and then transmit it to other dogs during their next blood meal. The incubation period in the infected dog is 7 to 21 days, and the three phases of the disease begin to appear, starting with the acute, subclinical, and chronic phases.
Symptoms of Canine Ehrlichia
Symptoms of canine ehrlichia may vary depending on the stage of the disease 👈: acute, subclinical or chronic. These symptoms may be much less severe if the disease is diagnosed early and treated properly.
Stages of Canine Ehrlichia Disease
2. Subclinical Phase Stage
The symptoms may be mild or nonexistent, and the disease can remain undetected for up to a year.
3. Chronic Phase Stage
- Duration: It can last for months or years.
- Symptoms of this stage: Anemia, bleeding, neurological problems, kidney failure, eye inflammation.
Diagnosis of Canine Ehrlichia
Serological tests
These tests detect antibodies against Ehrlichia in the blood and are based on the search for anti-Ehrlichia antibodies using methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence.
Today, there are commercial tests available on the market that allow the detection of IgG antibodies against E. canis using synthetic peptides of the p30 and p30-1 proteins of this species, such as the SNAP 4Dx® tests from IDEXX laboratories.
2. PCR (Polymerase chain reaction)
It detects the DNA of the bacteria in the dog’s blood. PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, is a chemical reaction used by molecular biologists to amplify (create copies of) DNA fragments. This reaction allows a few DNA fragments to be replicated into millions or billions of copies.
Hematology Test
This test is a complete blood count where anemia, thrombocytopenia, and other changes can be observed. It is performed by staining a peripheral blood smear, which can be stained with Giemsa to look for morulae in the monocytes under microscopy. The presence of these morulae can provide clues for E. canis infection, offering a rapid and low-cost diagnosis. However, this method has certain disadvantages, such as its low sensitivity, mainly due to the low bacteremia, which requires more time to search for morulae, making their identification difficult. On the other hand, morulae can only be observed during the acute phase of the disease when the bacteria multiply in intra-cytoplasmic microcolonies.
Treatment of Canine Ehrlichia
For successful treatment, early diagnosis of the disease is crucial. After this diagnosis, antibiotics such as Doxycycline, which is the treatment of choice, should be administered for a period of 4 weeks or more. Additionally, a vitamin B supplement should be given to correct anemia issues and promote the generation of macrophages and neutrophils. Depending on the progression or complications, supportive treatment may be administered, including blood transfusions, fluid therapy, and other care based on the symptoms present. It is essential to complete the full treatment even if symptoms improve to ensure the eradication of the bacteria.
When is Supportive Care Given?
Supportive treatments are generally started when symptoms such as very pale mucous membranes and a heart murmur, which should be due to non-progressive anemia, are observed. They are also indicated when there is an involuntary loss of more than 10% of body weight (particularly of muscle mass), when there are significant bleeding episodes, neurological problems, or kidney failure.
FAQs
What do I do if I find a tick on my dog?
Remove it with tweezers, making sure to remove the entire body of the tick, and disinfect the area. Monitor your dog for signs of illness and consult the veterinarian.
How long does it take for an infected dog to show symptoms?
Symptoms may appear 1 to 3 weeks after being bitten by an infected tick.
Conclusions
Canine Ehrlichiosis is a serious disease that requires immediate attention. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, dogs can fully recover. Prevention through tick control is essential to protect your pet from this disease. Stay informed and consult your veterinarian regularly to ensure the health and well-being of your dog.
