Transmitted via deer tick bites, Lyme disease in dogs can be quite concerning for pet owners. Effects range from joint inflammation to serious kidney damage, so receiving a timely diagnosis from a trusted veterinary clinic is the first step to getting your dog essential treatment. Below, the professionals at Hilton Veterinary Hospital in New York offer the following guide to help dog owners make the right choices should their pets fall ill.

Common Symptoms

The most common symptom of Lyme disease is joint inflammation. Inflamed joints can occur in one or all legs and often cause problems walking. There are also more serious symptoms related to kidney dysfunction, including lack of appetite, weight loss, and diarrhea.  Other common symptoms include problems breathing, decreased mood, swelling around the site of the tick bite, and even heart issues on rare occasions.  

How It’s Diagnosed

Your veterinary clinic will run a number of tests to asses your dog’s health. This usually includes blood testing (which checks for blood cell count), X-rays, urinalysis, fecal exams, among many others. You’ll also need to provide information on your pet’s health leading up to the symptoms, as well as general wellness. Because the symptoms of Lyme disease can mimic a number of other disorders, it’s important for your vet to get an accurate picture to make the correct determination.

Treatment Options

Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relievers are commonly provided to dogs suffering from Lyme disease. You can also take steps to prevent Lyme disease from occurring in the first place. Your local veterinary clinic may recommend topical ointments or oral medications to repel ticks. Additionally, be wary of heavily-infested areas, and check your dog for ticks after spending time outdoors.

Over the last 25 years, Hilton Veterinary Hospital has established themselves as a trusted resource for local pet owners. These kind and caring veterinarians utilize the latest diagnostic tools to determine whether your pet is suffering from Lyme disease or other conditions. They also offer a variety of other services, such as pet dental care, allergy testing, and treatments for orthopedic issues. Learn more about this Hilton, NY veterinary clinic by visiting the website. You can also call (585) 392-2937 to schedule an appointment today.