04/11/2025
🐾CANINE EHRLICHIOSIS in dogs is a tick-borne bacterial disease caused by Ehrlichia bacteria, transmitted primarily by brown dog ticks (GARAPATA).
*Cause and transmission
Cause: The disease is caused by bacteria from the Ehrlichia genus. The most common type is Ehrlichia canis.
Transmission: Dogs become infected after being bitten by an infected tick(GARAPATA).
*Symptoms
Ehrlichiosis has three phases:
Acute phase: Dogs may show non-specific signs like fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, and loss of appetite.
Sub-clinical phase: The dog may appear normal, but the infection is still present.
Chronic phase: This phase can involve more severe symptoms like joint pain, anemia, bleeding (especially nosebleeds), and neurological issues.
*Diagnosis and treatment
A veterinarian will diagnose ehrlichiosis based on a physical exam, blood tests, and other diagnostics.
Treatment: The disease is treated with antibiotics. Since the bacteria live inside the dog's cells, treatment can be challenging and may require a long course of medication.
Emergency signs: If you see sudden bleeding, high fever, severe weakness, or confusion, contact a veterinarian immediately, as these are signs of a life-threatening emergency.
*Prevention
Preventing tick bites is the best way to avoid ehrlichiosis.
Use regular tick prevention products as recommended by your veterinarian.
Check your dog thoroughly for ticks after they have been outdoors, especially in high-risk areas.
If you suspect your pet having the same condition,
Visit Northern Coast Veterinary Clinic - Santa Ana, Cagayan
Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm
📱09563258880