Lyme Disease Vaccines for Dogs

Lyme disease in dogs is a potentially lethal disease caused by tick bites. It can cause coordination problems, stiff joints and kidney failure. This is why it is essential for dog living in Lyme disease areas to get vaccinations.

Protect your dog if you live in areas known for ticks

Types

There are two types of dog vaccinations for Lyme disease---live and killed. According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, the live vaccine works better than the killed.

Time Frame

Puppies should get their first Lyme disease vaccination when they are eight weeks old, then twelve weeks old and then once a year for the life of the dog.

Side Effects

Recorded side effects of Lyme disease vaccine in dogs have been very rare. According to Dr. Stephen C. Barr, the vaccine is safe even if given at twice the dosage.

Controversy

Mar Vista Animal Medical Center points out that some dog owners consider Lyme disease vaccines unnecessary since Lyme disease in dogs can be successfully treated with common antibiotics.

Misconception

Although humans can get Lyme disease, they cannot get it from a dog with Lyme disease, but can get it through ticks that can bite both human and canine. Vaccinating a dog should not be a substitution for vaccinating a human.

References

• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook (Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al; 2007)
• Mar Vista Animal Medical Center: Lyme Disease
• The District of Columbia Academy of Veterinary Medicine: Leptospirosis and Lyme Disease by Stephen C. Barr, BVSc, MVS, PhD

Resources

• Lyme Disease in Dogs
• Find a Veterinarian
• Human Lyme Disease Vaccine