Tag: Lyme disease in dogs

Can my dog catch Lyme disease from other dogs?

Many questions about tick-borne illnesses concern their human impact.  But what about our pets?

Pet owners are realizing more and more that proper tick protection is a must.  Even when a dog lives in a low-risk area, he might still encounter a tick bite in his lifetime.  This can happen when hiking, going to the beach, or just being outdoors, where there is grass and other vegetation.  We know that dogs can contract Lyme disease.  But can your dog catch Lyme disease from other dogs?

Can dogs catch Lyme disease from dogs?
Can my dog catch Lyme disease from other dogs?

Dogs only contract Lyme disease from ticks.

Just like humans, dogs and other animals can only contract Lyme disease from the bite of an infected tick.  So, if you have a pet that is diagnosed with Lyme disease, you should know three things.  First, Lyme disease can be cured in dogs if caught early.  It is estimated that 10% of dogs will actually contract Lyme from the bite of an infected tick.  Lyme disease cannot be passed to other dogs from your dog; nor can your dog catch Lyme disease from other dogs.

dogs cannot catch lyme from other dogs
Dogs cannot catch Lyme from other dogs.

How long does it take to become infected with Lyme?

dogs catch Lyme disease from tick bites only
A tick must be attached for about 48 hours in order to pass infection to your dog.

In order for Lyme bacteria to be passed to your dog, it must be attached for about 48 hours.  This is one reason that you should check your dog regularly for ticks.  This is especially true in the height of tick season.  Even a short trip outdoors can result in a tick attaching to your dog.

Is my cat susceptible to Lyme infection?

While cats can contract Lyme disease from the bite of an infected tick, it is rare.  That does not mean it is impossible, though.  Symptoms in cats include, fatigue, fever, and difficulty breathing.  Cats might also be infected, but show no symptoms.  If you find an engorged tick on your cat, safely remove it, and watch for symptoms of infection.

Can cats contract lyme?
Can your cat get Lyme?

How can you keep ticks away from your dog?

There are many products, which have been created specifically for protecting dogs from ticks.  From over-the-counter collars and ultrasonic devices, to prescription medications – you must weigh all your options.  All-natural remedies are also available.  As a pet owner, you must choose what you feel will best protect your dog.

See more tick and Lyme disease questions and answers:

At-home Gardner tick treatment is important for the health and safety of your whole family.

tick tubes
Tick tubes offer year-round tick control.

Central Massachusetts is a high-risk tick bite region.  With the surge in tick populations, professional tick treatment has never been more important.  Not only for the health of your human family, but also for your pets.  You can choose between EPA-registered tick yard sprays and all-natural repellents.  Each professional formula must be administered ever two to three weeks.  All-natural tick barrier spray will offer less protection for a shorter amount of time.  In the off-season, tick tubes are available.

Also read: Can you get Lyme disease from dog saliva?

These cotton-filled tubes were created to use from late fall through early spring.  The cotton is treated with insecticide, which when carried back to the nests of rodents, will eliminate any ticks therein.  Year-round is essential for ultimate tick control and protection for Lyme disease.

Dave Macchia, tick control enthusiast
Dave Macchia, Central Mass tick control enthusiast

Also read: How can I protect my dog from Lyme disease?

 

Lyme Disease in Dogs

Dogs can contract a number of human illnesses.  They can get a cold or flu.  According to the CDC, they can even get COVID-19.  What about Lyme?

Lyme disease in dogs is much like the human infection.  Dogs get Lyme infection from the black legged tick, also known as the deer tick.  It takes 36 to 48 hours of tick attachment for the Lyme bacteria to be passed to dogs.  An anecdotal survey suggests that 10% to 60% of dogs are infected with Lyme disease in high-transmission areas.  Whether you are a dog owner, or plan to adopt a dog this holiday season, here are a few things you should know about Lyme disease in dogs.

Lyme disease in dogs
Could your dog have Lyme disease?

Does Lyme disease in dogs result in symptoms?

Dogs, who become infected, can show symptoms.  They can present joint pain and swelling, lethargy, and fever – just like humans.  However, it is believed that most dogs do not show immediate Lyme symptoms.  Your dog could become ill long after contracting Lyme disease.  Veterinarians can test your beloved friend for Lyme, but be prepared to wait.  It can take two months or longer to diagnose Lyme disease in dogs.

dogs might show lyme disease symptoms
Many dogs do not show signs of infection.

Can it be cured in dogs?

Yes.  Another similarity to human infection is that with quick diagnosis, Lyme disease can be cured in dogs.  A round of doxycycline can nip Lyme in the bud in as little as three days!  The great news is, Lyme disease can also be prevented in dogs.  A Lyme vaccine is available, though like many human vaccines, it is highly debated.

Also read: How close are we to a Lyme vaccine?

Lyme disease can be cured in dogs
Lyme is curable and preventable in dogs.

Can Lyme disease shorten your dog’s life?

Unfortunately, if a proper diagnosis is not made early after infection, your dog could become very ill down the road.  Dogs, who go untreated can go into eventual kidney failure.  Signs of kidney failure might be loss of appetite and weight loss, lethargy, pale gums, and an increase or decrease in drinking.  Blood and urine tests will show if your dog is in kidney failure.  Chronic kidney disease can be treated with special diets, prescription medication, and all-natural remedies.  However, advanced kidney disease can result in a loss of quality of life, and shorten your dog’s life.

dogs get Lyme disease like humans
Keep your dog’s health in good check to improve quality of life.

Protect your dogs with the best tick protection.

Dave Macchia, tick control enthusiast
Dave Macchia, Central Mass tick control enthusiast

The best protection is professional tick control, along with veterinarian recommended treatment for your dog.  Professional tick control efforts around your home will greatly decrease your dog’s chances of a tick encounter, which could result in Lyme disease or Anaplasmosis.  Reputable Central Mass tick control is available for the health and happiness of your pet.  Be sure to employ year-round tick control, including tick tubes in the fall and winter.  Also practice the 6 C’s of tick control!

Also read: Can you get Lyme disease from dog saliva?