For residents of Wisconsin, Lyme disease is a real risk. All pet owners should be aware of the causes and effects of this endemic threat. Although most of the nation’s cats and dogs don’t necessarily need pet vaccines for the tick-borne bacterial disease, Wisconsin reports the 4th highest number of confirmed cases of Lyme disease. Here’s what you need to know about protecting your pet from infection.

Why Lyme Disease Poses a Risk for Pets & Owners

What Is Lyme Disease?

Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease is a painful illness that leads to an abundance of complications if left untreated. In the United States, diagnosis is most common in the upper Midwest and Northeast. The bacteria is transferred via deer tick bite. Ticks will latch onto any animal, including humans and pets. Symptoms may take months to appear, and in some pets, they won’t surface at all. If your pet is suffering from skin irritations, anemia, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, or lameness, there’s a chance they may be infected. Take your pet to an animal hospital immediately if you believe they’ve been bitten by a tick.

Lyme disease is not directly transferrable between humans and animals, but a tick that latches onto your dog may move on to a family member next. In both pets and people, long-term complications in the heart, joints, kidneys, and nervous system may arise if the disease is not treated. Thankfully, there is a pet vaccine available that helps prevent Lyme disease.

Why Should I Vaccinate My Pet Against It?

Veterinarians in most areas of the United States wouldn’t find it necessary to suggest pet vaccines for Lyme disease. In high-risk regions like Wisconsin, however, vaccinations are highly recommended. Any pets that go outside are in danger of becoming a host for deer ticks. You can protect your furry friend, and therefore your family, with the pet vaccine. Rather than constantly applying tick control products, where accidentally missing a dose could have drastic consequences, cats and dogs simply need an annual booster to continue immunity.

Ticks are a constant danger to pets and owners living in Wisconsin. At Sauk County’s Baraboo Valley Veterinary Clinic, prevention is key. This veterinary clinic offers a wide variety of preventative services, including spaying, neutering, diagnostics, and wellness exams. Their veterinarians provide the Lyme disease pet vaccine in tandem with physical exams, so your furry friend will get all the care they need in one visit. Schedule your appointment today by calling (608) 355-2882. For a full list of services, visit their website.