Lyme Disease Symptoms in Dogs
Lyme disease can be a serious illness for dogs. If you think your dog has contracted the disease, you should visit your vet as soon as possible. You should also learn more about the symptoms of the disease and how your vet can determine if your dog has the disease. Below, you’ll find information on what the symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs look like.
Can a dog live with Lyme disease?
If your dog is experiencing Lyme disease symptoms, you should immediately take him to a veterinarian. They can conduct a blood test to determine whether your dog has the disease. If the tests come back positive, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria from your dog’s bloodstream. Antibiotics should be administered to your dog for a minimum of four weeks. Antiinflammatory medications may also be prescribed to alleviate the pain in the affected joints.
A dog with Lyme disease symptoms should be taken to the vet immediately, as they can lead to serious complications. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, a dog may need a long period of antibiotic treatment to completely eradicate the infection. Symptoms may recur, so it’s essential to have your pet checked regularly.
What are the 3 stages of Lyme disease?
The first stage of Lyme disease involves the development of a rash. The rash may begin looking like a mosquito bite, but it will spread to a red ring with a clear center. The rash is usually not itchy or painful. More than 70 percent of people with Lyme disease will experience the rash, but a significant proportion of cases won’t have one.
The second stage of Lyme disease is known as late disseminated disease. In this stage, the tick must be attached to the person’s skin for 24 to 36 hours to transmit the disease. In the first stage, Lyme disease is not contagious. Treatment for the disease involves a two to four-week course of antibiotics. Upon completion of treatment, most patients feel back to normal within a few weeks.
How do dogs walk with Lyme disease?
If your dog has been bitten by a tick, it’s important to know how to prevent Lyme disease. You can prevent infection by avoiding areas where ticks are abundant. In areas with milder winters, it’s important to inspect your dog’s coat after walking outdoors.
A veterinarian can help determine whether your dog has Lyme disease. He or she will review your dog’s complete medical history and discuss instances of tick contact. Your veterinarian can also perform a series of tests. These tests may include x-rays and blood tests. Your veterinarian will also draw fluid from joints that may be affected.
If you suspect your dog has Lyme disease, your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics. Treatment will last for several weeks, but you should monitor your dog’s health carefully. During this time, you can give your dog pain medication as needed. In some cases, joint pain will persist even after you stop treatment, and your vet may prescribe lifelong treatment.
How do vets check for Lyme disease?
Dogs are at risk for contracting Lyme disease if they spend a lot of time outdoors, particularly in wooded areas. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to get the right treatment and prevent further infection. Fortunately, most dogs don’t contract Lyme disease unless they come in contact with ticks. A veterinarian can diagnose Lyme disease by examining your pet’s symptoms and performing the appropriate tests.
Symptoms can range from fever to lameness. Your veterinarian will examine your dog’s body for any of these symptoms, as well as run a physical exam. Blood tests will help confirm the diagnosis.
What if my dog tested positive for Lyme?
If you think your dog may have contracted the disease from ticks, you should have him tested by a veterinarian. Lyme disease can lead to neurological problems, joint pain, and even kidney failure if left untreated. Treatment can eliminate signs of the infection and keep your dog healthy.
Fortunately, the signs of Lyme disease typically disappear within 3 days if diagnosed early. If the symptoms appear too late, the symptoms can persist for months or years. Lyme disease is often silent and can recur during stressful times. A prior infection does not protect your dog against future infections, but a positive test will give your veterinarian the opportunity to recommend a course of treatment.
Antibiotics are usually recommended as treatment. The first course of antibiotics should include Doxycycline. If the infection is too severe, a longer course of antibiotics may be necessary. Your vet may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to ease your dog’s joint pain.
