Lyme disease is something that many deal with on a daily basis in the United States. But did you know that it can affect your pet? The ability for dogs to contract the illness is something that every dog owner should know about.
Lyme disease in dogs is a common tick-borne illness that affects the nervous and lymphatic systems. Symptoms include joint swelling, lethargy, fever, appetite loss, and weight loss. Early detection and prevention are key, including tick control and regular checks. PetWellClinic provides convenient testing and diagnostics to catch it early for timely, effective treatment.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease in dogs are always possible, especially in warmer seasons or if you live in warmer climates. It’s the most common tick-borne condition contracted by dogs, attacking their nervous system as well as their lymphatic system. So what common symptoms and signs should you look for in your dog?
Signs of Lyme disease
- Swollen joints (often accompanied by a limp)
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Lethargy
- Kidney disease
- Sudden weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
These symptoms will often happen two to five months after being bitten by an infected tick. It’s important to take your pet to the vet immediately as soon as you notice any of these symptoms and similar behavior.
How Pets Are Infected
Lyme disease in dogs occurs when they’ve been bitten by an infected tick. The species of tick, the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick, carries the spiral-shaped bacterium known as Borrelia burgdorferi. These ticks are found in the woods and tall grass, but your pet can pick them up almost anywhere and at almost any time.
Many pet owners think that tick season ends when it gets cold outside. You may think that ticks die off in the winter and your pet is safe, but that isn’t true. Most ticks do reduce their activity, but they don’t die. If you live in regions that have mild winters, the chances of ticks staying active are especially high.
Lyme is only contracted through the bite of an infected tick. Pets cannot pass it to each other. But if you have multiple pets and one is diagnosed with the condition, it would be a good idea to have your other pets tested if they spend time in the same areas as the pet that’s infected. You may also want to get yourself and other members of your family tested, as well.
Preventing Lyme in Pets
There are several ways to prevent Lyme disease in dogs.
1. Flea and tick preventative products
Using the right flea and tick preventative can go a long way in protecting your dog from the condition. But before you go to your local superstore or pet store and just grab something off of the shelf, talk to your PetWellClinic vet about the best option for your dog when it comes to tick control.
2. Vaccinations
While there isn’t a vaccine available to humans, there are vaccine options for your dog. It’s best to work directly with your vet and discuss whether this is a good option for your dog or not. Their advice may vary based on where you live and what your and your pet’s lifestyle is like.
3. Avoid common areas where ticks are found
One of the best ways to prevent tick-related illnesses is to avoid areas that are known to attract ticks. As mentioned earlier, ticks usually hang out in wooded areas, in tall grass, and similar areas.
4. Check for ticks
If you and your dog enjoy going on hikes and spending time outside, you shouldn’t stop doing those things out of fear of the condition. However, you can be vigilant to check yourself and your dog for ticks after doing outdoor activities. Using bug spray on yourself and making sure your pet is up to date on tick preventative before you go outside is also important.
5. Take care of your yard
Keeping your yard well-groomed and manicured can also support the prevention of ticks on your dog. Make sure the grass is kept short, clear out/prune any large shrubs, and give your dog the best chance to enjoy their life outside without fear of being bitten.
Trust PetWellClinic for Diagnosis and Treatment
PetWellClinic offers walk-in diagnostics that make it easier to catch health issues early and start treatment without waiting for an appointment. We test for:
- Everyday illnesses
- Chronic conditions
- Tick-borne disease
This includes a Tick Panel that can help screen for Lyme disease in dogs.
That matters because catching problems in the early stages can improve outcomes and help prevent complications, especially when symptoms are still vague or easy to miss. We’re a convenient, compassionate option when you want fast answers and timely care.
Find Your Local PetWellClinic®
Lyme disease in dogs is a tick-borne illness that can affect the nervous and lymphatic systems, causing symptoms like joint swelling, fever, lethargy, and weight loss. Early prevention and detection are essential. PetWellClinic offers convenient testing and diagnostics to identify Lyme disease early and help your dog receive prompt treatment.
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