Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that affects both humans and animals. While it is most commonly associated with humans, pets can also contract Lyme disease. Let’s go over how pets can get Lyme disease, the symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent it.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected tick. Ticks can be found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and bushes. Once infected, the bacterium can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, joint pain, and skin rash.
How do Pets Get Lyme Disease?
Pets can get Lyme disease by being bitten by a tick that is carrying the bacterium. Ticks can attach themselves to any part of a pet's body, but they are most commonly found around the ears, neck, and head. Once a tick attaches itself to a pet, it can take several hours before the bacterium is transmitted.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Pets
The symptoms of Lyme disease in pets can vary, but they may include:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Lameness, especially in the limbs
- Difficulty breathing
- Kidney failure (in severe cases)
How to Prevent Lyme Disease in Pets
The best way to prevent Lyme disease in pets is to prevent tick bites. Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe:
- Use tick prevention products like Bravecto or Nexgard which is what we recommend. There are also a variety of other tick prevention products available, including collars, sprays, and topical treatments. Talk to your veterinarian about which product is best for your pet.
- Check your pet for ticks regularly. After your pet has been outside, check their fur and skin for ticks. If you find a tick, remove it immediately with tweezers or a tick removal tool.
- Keep your yard tidy. Ticks like to hide in tall grasses and bushes, so keep your yard well-maintained to minimize tick habitat.
- Avoid tick-infested areas. If you live in an area with a high prevalence of ticks, try to avoid wooded areas, tall grasses, and bushes.
Treatment for Lyme Disease in Pets
If you suspect that your pet has Lyme disease, take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Lyme disease is a serious condition that can affect both humans and animals. Pets can get Lyme disease by being bitten by a tick that is carrying the bacterium, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Prevention is the key to keeping your pet safe, and there are a variety of tick prevention products available. By following these tips, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
