General Information
Lyme disease is zoonotic meaning that it can affect both humans and animals. Lyme’s disease is transmitted through tick bites and primarily the Deer tick. Lyme disease cannot be transmitted from one animal to another only through a tick bite. Deer ticks are found in forests or grassy, wooded, marshy areas near lakes or oceans. Lyme disease can be difficult to detect and can cause serious reoccurring health problems. A map of the reported cases of Lyme disease can be found at the website for CDC.
Prevention
The best prevention is to avoid areas where ticks are possible. Around the house shrubbery should be cleared and keeping a well-maintained lawn is important. Once inside check for ticks. Be sure to check areas such as between toes or the pads on the feet as well as around the ears. Using reliable tick prevention such as Nexguard is recommended. You can also vaccinate your canine companion for Lyme disease. Discuss with your veterinary professional as to whether a Lyme vaccine is appropriate for your pet. Factors such as lifestyle, where you live and your pets overall health are contributing factors as to whether a Lyme’s vaccine is appropriate.
Symptoms
There are usually no signs of Lyme disease for the first 2-5months after infection. Some signs of Lyme disease include fever, decrease in appetite, lameness, joint swelling and decreased activity. Lyme disease is diagnosed by a blood test
Treatment
Patients that are diagnosed with Lyme disease are placed on an antibiotic for treatment.
Please feel free to contact any of our doctors at your closest location of Newberry Animal Hospital for more information!