Dog Diseases From Ticks

Tick-borne diseases are hard to diagnose in dogs because they imitate other diseases. The sooner a dog is treated with antibiotics for illnesses such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, the more likely his chances are for a complete recovery.

Ehrlichiosis

A bacteria transmitted by saliva from the bite of a brown dog tick, ehrlichiosis is seen mostly in America's Southern states. Since dogs don't always react instantly, an owner might not notice when symptoms appear months later. Signs include lethargy, weight loss and decreased appetite, with arthritis in severe cases. German shepherds are affected more than other breeds. A potential cause of anemia, the condition is diagnosed with blood tests. Treatment includes antibiotics over a long period, but it doesn't eliminate the problem completely and symptoms can recur. Some dogs might require blood transfusions.

Lyme Disease

With cases occurring in all states, Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria transmitted by the tiny deer tick. Hard to spot, it inflicts a bite that causes fever and limping in one front leg. The first sign is usually lack of energy followed by joint pain. Pain can become so severe dogs are unable to walk within three days. Antibiotics can cure Lyme if caught early and avoid long-term complications. The majority of dogs respond to treatment within a week. Most occurrences in Northern states appear in summer. A vaccine can protect dogs from Lyme.

Babesiosis

Babesiosis is a microscopic parasite spread by brown dog ticks. The disease occurred in Asia, Africa and the Middle East until 1979 when it arrived in America as a weak strain. While some act as carriers, not all dogs display symptoms. Signs include occasional fever, weakness, pale gums and yellowing of the eyes. Young dogs can be severely affected by anemia and clotting. It appears most often in the Southeastern United States, affecting greyhounds and pit bull terriers. Treatment involves medications, IV fluids and blood stimulants. It is never totally eliminated, and dogs that survive can suffer relapses.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Caused by a parasite, Rocky Mountain spotted fever appears in America's East Coast, Midwest, and Plains. Most cases occur from April through September. Signs appear two weeks after a bite, with weight loss, decreased appetite, intermittent fever and muscular pain. It can be fatal if pneumonia develops. Two blood tests are done two weeks apart to confirm the disease, with biopsy results sooner. White blood cells are affected. Treatment includes antibiotics for 10 to 14 days. Hardest hit by RMSF are German shepherds and some English springer spaniels.

Prevention/Solution

The recommended way to remove a tick is to pull firmly with tweezers, not with alcohol or matches. Because avoidance is better than treatment, tick prevention is recommended with a collar or medication. Mow the lawn to keep grass short, and treat the yard with approved repellent. Shampoos that fight ticks are helpful. Inspect your dog daily in tick season and year-round in warm areas.