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Lyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria (a spirochete) called Borrelia.  It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick. Once in the blood stream, it is carried to many parts of the body.  It is especially likely to settle in joints.
It was first thought that only a few types of ticks could transmit this disease, but now it appears that several common species may be involved.
Humans also get Lyme disease; however they do not get it directly from dogs.  They get it from being bitten by the same ticks that transmit it to dogs.  Therefore, preventing exposure to ticks is important for you and your dog.
Many dogs affected with Lyme disease are taken to a veterinarian because they seem to be experiencing generalized pain and have stopped eating.  Affected dogs have been described as “walking on eggshells”. Some pets are affected with the Lyme disease organism for over a year before they finally show symptoms.
Because the Lyme spirochete is a bacterium, it can be controlled by antibiotics.  However, a lengthy course of treatment is necessary to completely eradicate the organism.
The key to prevention is keeping your dog from being exposed to ticks.  Ticks are found in grassy, wooded, and sandy areas.  They find their way onto an animal by climbing to the top of a leaf, blade of grass, or short tree.  Here they wait until their sensors detect a close-by animal on which to crawl or drop.
Monthly use of tick repellant such as Frontline Plus or AdvanTix is a vital part of prevention.  Keeping animals from thick underbrush reduces their exposure to ticks.  Dogs should be kept on trails when walked near wooded or tall grass areas. Checking your dog daily for ticks is important.
A vaccine is now available for protecting dogs against Lyme disease.  This vaccine is initially given twice, at a three to four week interval.  Then the vaccine is boostered once yearly.  The vaccine has been shown to be safe and very effective.  We recommend it for any dog that has exposure to ticks.
 

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* Update * We have currently raised $260.00.  Thank you for your support.