Lyme Disease Control

Lyme Disease can cause serious issues if left untreated so early detection is key.

Lyme Disease is on the rise in Nova Scotia. Lyme not only affects humans; our dogs can contract Lyme Disease as well. Annual testing, through a simple blood test, is recommended. There are also products you can apply or give orally to your dog to reduce tick exposure. Lyme vaccines exist for dogs to prevent Lyme Disease. Talk to your veterinarian to see what is best for your dog to prevent this potentially fatal disease.

What are the symptoms of Lyme Disease in a dog?

Symptoms of Lyme Disease can vary and unlike humans, the signs may not appear for months after exposure to the tick. The most common signs that we see in dogs are fever, lameness, swelling of the joints and/or lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, increased thirst and increased urination.

How do dogs get Lyme Disease?

Lyme Disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick. The bacteria responsible for Lyme Disease is transmitted into the dog’s bloodstream.

What are the treatment options for Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is treated with a specific antibiotic. The course of treatment is usually between 14-30 days. If there is damage to the kidneys as a result of Lyme Disease, that will need to be addressed as well. Early detection is key.

Why is recovery and Lyme Disease treatment challenging?

If left untreated, Lyme Disease can cause more serious damage to the body such as kidney disease. Due to damage to the kidneys, it can be harder for some patients to recover. Even after antibiotic treatment, the bacteria can lay dormant in the body for a number of years before recurring again. The dog may not show any signs during that dormant time but would need to be treated again if symptoms recur, early detection is key.

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