According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 30,000 humans contract Lyme disease in the United States every year. Veterinarians are quick to remind dog owners that this disease also impacts furry friends. If you’re a pet owner looking for more information on this disease and the treatment options for dogs, here’s a list of frequently asked questions to review. 

What You Need to Know About Lyme Disease

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a condition that’s caused by the presence of the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi in the body. This bacteria, which is carried by blacklegged ticks, can cause a myriad of health issues in both humans and dogs, such as headaches, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and skin rashes. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the nervous system, heart, and joints. 

How do dogs get Lyme disease?

Dogs, like humans, contract Lyme disease when an infected tick bites them. To get the disease, a tick typically needs to be attached to your dog for about 48 hours. As such, it’s important to inspect your dog for ticks, especially if you live in a region that has a high rate of these bugs or your dog spends lots of time in wooded areas. 

How can pet owners prevent Lyme disease in dogs?

Speak with your veterinarian about choosing the right tick prevention medication or product when you first adopt your furry friend. In addition, keep grass and shrubs trimmed in your yard and avoid letting your dog romp in tall grass, marshes, and wooded areas that are known for high tick rates. It’s important to make a habit of checking your dog for ticks as well. If you see a tick, remove it promptly with tweezers and call your veterinary clinic to determine whether a checkup and a Lyme disease test is necessary. 

How can animals clinics treat dogs with this condition?

Veterinarians can prescribe antibiotics to treat a dog with Lyme disease. This medication will need to be administered twice a day for at least 30 days after a dog is diagnosed. Even after a round of medication, dogs can have relapses since the bacterium does not leave their body entirely. As such, if your dog has Lyme disease, maintain a close relationship with your animal clinic, schedule routine checkups, and be cognizant of any behavioral changes, such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or increased thirst and urination. 

If you’re a pet owner in the Greater Prairie du Chien, WI, area, and would like to take preventive action to protect your dog from Lyme disease, Tender Care Animal Hospital is the perfect partner to help your four-legged friend maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. Since opening for business over 15 years ago, this veterinarian has taken pride in offering fear-free treatment to ensure every patient is at ease and comfortable in their facility. Call today at (608) 326-7101 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to read testimonials from satisfied pet owners.