A Look At Lyme Disease In Canines
Lyme disease in dogs is a condition that can cause a wide range of problems with your dog. The kidneys, joints, or heart can be affected if the disease isn’t treated in time. Dogs that live in northeastern states, southern states, Mississippi, and California are usually affected. However, the disease can be a problem in any area of the country. This article will give you a brief intro to lyme disease in canines.
Cause
Owners may be wondering how their dog can be affected by this disease. Ticks transmit this disease when they bite your dog. Through his bite, the tick passes along a bacterium named Borrelia burgdorferi. You should know that the bacteria can’t be immediately transferred. The tick has to stay attached for one or two days.
Signs
Dogs exhibit a range of symptoms when infected with this disease. Many dogs experience limping in one of their forelegs. As the condition advances, the once barely noticeable limping gets much worse. Loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes, and fever are other common symptoms of lyme disease in dogs.
Diagnosis
Initially, the vet will review your dog’s medical history and symptoms. These symptoms will appear suddenly, which points to Lyme disease. The bacteria that causes this disease can be detected via a blood test.
Treatment
Dog lyme disease should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. If not, permanent damage can be done to your dog’s joints and nerves. The preferred method of treatment is through the use of antibiotics. Dogs need to take this medication for approximately 21 days. Also, lyme disease can become quite painful. Aspirin will help your dog deal with the pain.
Prognosis
Although treatment lasts for about three weeks, most dogs will start feeling better within a couple of days. However, the disease may recur in months or even weeks. If this happens, your dog will need to take antibiotics again.
All owners should know a little something about dog illnesses. Fortunately, dog-illnesses.com provides a wealth of information on a range of these conditions. Click over right now.
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