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05/08/2025
Lyme Disease, also known as Borreliosis, is a disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which itself is carried by the deer tick, aka the black-legged tick. Both humans and dogs can contract Lyme when bitten by an infected tick, and symptoms may take 2-5 months to appear. A dog infected with Lyme may show signs of generalized pain and lameness, as well as a decreased appetite. Non-specific signs which may indicate that Lyme disease is affecting the kidneys include vomiting, lethargy, anorexia (lack of appetite), and weight loss. The kidney form of the disease is less common but often fatal.
The key to prevention is limiting your dog’s exposure 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 trees (especially cedar trees), where they wait until their sensors detect an approaching animal on which to crawl or drop. Keeping animals from thick underbrush reduces their exposure to ticks. Dogs should be kept on trails when walking near wooded or tall grass areas. You should also keep your dog up to date on his oral or topical flea & tick prevention medicines, such as Bravecto or Simparica, which are available through your veterinary office. Finally, if your lifestyle is such that your dog is at high risk for Lyme Disease, consider asking your veterinarian about the Lyme vaccine.
For more information: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/lyme-disease-in-dogs
