Lyme disease in dogs is a growing concern for pet owners across the United States. Caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is primarily transmitted through tick bites, this condition can lead to symptoms such as fever, lethargy, and joint stiffness. If left untreated, it may progress into more severe complications affecting the kidneys or nervous system. Early detection and proper preventive measures are crucial to safeguarding your dog’s long-term health. By understanding the life cycle of ticks, recognizing potential exposure risks, and staying informed about vaccination and tick-control options, you can reduce the likelihood of your pet contracting this illness. Regular vet check-ups and proactive steps such as using tick-preventive products and performing daily tick checks also play significant roles in decreasing the threat of infection. In this article, we will explore the most effective methods to protect your furry friend from Lyme disease in dogs. Stay vigilant year-round.
As you may know, Lyme disease has been on the rise in recent years, in large part because of exploding tick populations. Lyme disease is zoonotic, which means that both humans and animals can be afflicted. The CDC lists it as the most common vector-borne disease in America. Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites, particularly that of the deer tick. A local vet offers some tips on protecting your canine pal and yourself from this dangerous disease below.
Parasite Prevention
First and foremost, keep up with Fido’s parasite control regime. This is very important! There are many products to choose from, including sprays, topical drops, medicated ‘treats,’ and shampoos. Ask your vet for specific recommendations. Never combine products, or use different ones back-to-back. That could expose your pet to dangerous levels of pesticides!
Landscaping
Our canine buddies love to sniff around in bushes and long grasses. These are the sorts of places ticks love to lurk! One thing that will help is staying on top of your landscaping. Mow your lawn regularly, and remove any debris, such as piles of leaves or dead branches, where ticks may be nesting. Also, trim any shrubs you have around your home, and make sure they aren’t touching the walls of your house.
Vaccinations
There are vaccines available for Lyme disease for dogs. However, they aren’t always going to be recommended for every pup. Ask your vet for more information.
Checks
Ticks must be attached for at least 24 hours to spread Lyme disease, so we recommend checking Fido daily. Look under his collar and between his furry little toes. If you do find a tick, use tweezers or a tick popper to carefully remove it. You need to be sure you get the whole thing.
Keep Yourself Safe
It’s also important to protect yourself from ticks! If you spend time in fields or woods, wear long sleeves and tuck your jeans into your socks. Be sure to check yourself thoroughly when you get home.
Watch For Warning Signs
If Fido does contract Lyme, he won’t show symptoms right away. It might actually take a few months for you to notice that anything is wrong. Some red flags include fever, limping/lameness, stiff or swollen joints, lethargy, and reduced appetite. It’s worth noting that many of these signs also occur with anaplasmosis. Call your vet immediately if you notice anything wrong. Additionally, be aware of other potential health threats to your dog. For information on another current concern, read our article on The Mysterious Canine Respiratory Disease: Key Facts For Waterdown, ON Dog Owners.
Lyme Disease in Dogs 2025: Causes, Transmission & Risks
What specific bacteria causes Lyme disease?
Borrelia burgdorferi is the spirochete that leads to Lyme disease. This bacterium is transmitted by blacklegged ticks, commonly called deer ticks. Once infected, dogs may experience fever, joint swelling, and decreased appetite. Ticks must remain attached for at least 24 hours for transmission, making regular checks and prompt removal helpful prevention measures. Vaccination can offer an additional protective option, though recommendations vary depending on a pet’s circumstances. Effective parasite control methods, such as sprays or topical preventives, support overall safety for both canine companions and humans. It’s recognized in North America as the primary cause of tick-borne illness in dogs and humans.
How long must a tick be attached to transmit the disease?
Ticks generally need to remain attached for at least 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease. Daily checks make it easier to spot and remove these parasites before infection occurs. Thorough removal, using tweezers or a tick popper, helps avoid leaving any mouthparts behind. Parasite control products, including sprays and topical drops, minimize exposure, while routine lawn mowing and debris removal reduce tick habitats. When symptoms such as fever, lameness, or swollen joints appear, veterinary evaluation can determine if Lyme disease has been transmitted. Vaccination may be recommended depending on a dog’s lifestyle and overall risk factors.
What is the geographic distribution of Lyme disease risk?
Lyme disease risk is highest in the northeastern and upper midwestern regions of the United States, with additional cases on the West Coast. Deer ticks, which carry Borrelia burgdorferi, inhabit wooded and grassy areas where wildlife flourishes. Expanding tick populations, partly due to changing climate patterns, widen the geographical range and intensify risk. Those at greatest risk include dogs, humans, and wildlife in these areas. Frequent checks and effective parasite control measures safeguard pets and people in these zones. Veterinary guidance and routine landscaping tasks reduce tick habitats, providing a proactive defense in regions where infections continue to emerge.
How long after infection do symptoms typically appear?
Symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs often appear a few months after infection. Common signs include fever, limping, stiff or swollen joints, lethargy, and decreased appetite. It’s advised to monitor canine companions daily for changes in behavior, gait, or energy levels, especially during tick season. Because ticks must feed for at least 24 hours to transmit the infection, thorough tick checks and prompt removal can reduce the risk. If signs of discomfort or illness arise, consultation with a veterinary professional can determine the appropriate testing, treatments, and preventive measures. Quick attention helps ensure better outcomes.
Can the infection recur?
Lyme disease can recur in dogs if bacteria linger undetected or if re-infection happens from future tick exposures. Even when clinical signs have subsided, Borrelia burgdorferi may persist in joint tissues, occasionally leading to flare-ups. Repeated infections are possible if daily tick checks and parasite preventives are overlooked. Any resurgence of symptoms, such as lameness or lethargy, warrants prompt veterinary evaluation. Vaccinations and consistent maintenance of lawns help reduce exposure. Thorough removal of ticks within 24 hours further lowers risks. Early detection and timely treatment offer the best chance for managing recurrence.
Please contact us, your veterinary clinic in Carlisle, ON, anytime for Vet Wellness and Pet Vaccinations. We’re here to help protect your furry friend from Lyme disease and other health concerns.
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