Lyme disease

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia. These bacteria are transmitted from ticks to dogs when they suck blood. Not every tick is infected with Borrelia, but in some regions the number of infected ticks is higher than in others.

The borrelia migrate from the bite site into the dog's skin, where they can stimulate the immune system. In most cases, the infection remains asymptomatic, but sometimes the bacteria spread through the body and cause inflammation in various organs or in the nervous system.

How do I recognize Lyme disease in my dog?

Unfortunately, the symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs are very unspecific and usually only appear two to five months after infection. Reddening of the skin at the site of the bite may appear immediately, but this is rare and usually disappears after a week.

The most important signs of Lyme disease in dogs include

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• weakness
• Swelling of the lymph nodes
• Joint inflammation and lameness (usually first in the joint closest to the bite site)

In some dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever or the Bernese Mountain Dog, inflammation of the kidneys can also occur.

How is Lyme disease diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosing Lyme disease in dogs is not easy and requires several examinations. Your vet will first carry out a clinical examination and ask you about a possible tick bite.

To prove the infection, there are various blood tests that measure antibodies against the borrelia. However, these antibodies only indicate that your dog has had contact with the bacteria, not necessarily that it is infected.

It may therefore be necessary to take a skin sample near the bite site and test it for Borrelia. If this test is positive, the diagnosis is confirmed.

How is Lyme disease treated in dogs?

The treatment of Lyme disease in dogs consists of antibiotic therapy for around four weeks. The antibiotics are intended to kill the bacteria and alleviate the inflammation.

Depending on which organs are affected, your vet may also prescribe other medication, such as painkillers or diuretics. You should also offer your dog plenty of rest and fresh water.

How can I prevent Lyme disease in dogs?

The best prevention against Lyme disease in dogs is effective tick protection. There are various products that can repel or kill ticks, for example collars, spot-ons or tablets. You should consult your vet to find out which product is suitable for your dog.

You should also regularly check your dog for ticks and remove them as quickly as possible. You should use special tick tweezers or cards and make sure that you pull the tick out completely.

There is also a vaccination against Lyme disease in dogs, but it is not effective in all cases. The vaccination only protects against a specific strain of borrelia and must be repeated annually. You should discuss with your vet whether a vaccination makes sense for your dog.