The short answer is yes, dogs can contract Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is a well-known illness that affects humans, but many pet owners are unaware that their animal friends can also be at risk.
This tick-borne illness is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks.
For the sake of our pets, it is worthwhile to understand how Lyme disease affects dogs, its symptoms, and how to prevent it.
How Do Dogs Get Lyme Disease?
As in humans, dogs typically contract Lyme disease when bitten by an infected tick.
Ticks thrive in wooded, grassy, and brushy areas, making dogs who spend time outdoors—especially in regions with prevalent Lyme disease—more susceptible.
The northeastern United States, upper Midwest, and Pacific Coast are hotspots for Lyme disease.
However, cases have been reported nationwide, and the disease-carrying ticks are spreading to new areas.
In Europe, it is most common in the Scandinavian and Baltic states in northern Europe and Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Slovenia in central Europe.
Lyme disease-carrying ticks are prevalent throughout the UK.
Australia and New Zealand are fortunate to have no Lyme-carrying ticks.
Not all ticks carry the bacteria, and a tick must be attached to a dog for 24 to 48 hours to transmit the infection.
This is why regular tick checks and prompt removal are critical in preventing the disease.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme disease can be tricky to diagnose in dogs because symptoms may not appear immediately. Some dogs may not show signs for weeks or even months after being bitten.
Common symptoms include:
Lameness
One of the most noticeable signs is recurrent lameness, often shifting from one leg to another. This is caused by inflammation in the joints.
Fever
Dogs with Lyme disease may develop a fever, which can cause lethargy and a lack of appetite.
Swollen Joints
Joint swelling and pain are common, making movement uncomfortable for the dog.
Lethargy
Infected dogs may appear unusually tired or less active than usual.
Loss of Appetite
A decrease in appetite is another potential symptom.
Kidney Problems
In severe cases, Lyme disease can lead to kidney damage, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
It’s important to note that not all dogs infected with Borrelia burgdorferi will show symptoms.
Some dogs may carry the bacteria without becoming visibly ill, so preventive measures are necessary.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect your dog has Lyme disease, a visit to the veterinarian is essential.
The vet will likely perform a physical examination and recommend blood tests to check for antibodies to the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria.
However, a positive test does not always mean the dog is currently ill, as antibodies can persist long after exposure.
If Lyme disease is diagnosed, treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics, such as doxycycline, for several weeks.
Most dogs respond well to treatment; symptoms often improve within a few days. However, additional supportive care may be necessary in cases of kidney damage.
Prevention is Key
Preventing Lyme disease is far easier and less stressful than treating it. Some effective strategies to protect your dog are as follows:
Tick Control
Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products, such as topical treatments, oral medications, or tick collars. These products can kill or repel ticks before they have a chance to transmit the bacteria.
Regular Tick Checks
Thoroughly check your dog for ticks after outdoor activities. Pay close attention to areas like the ears, neck, and between the toes.
Landscape Management
Keep your yard tidy by mowing the lawn, removing leaf litter, and creating barriers between wooded areas and play spaces to reduce tick habitats.
Regular veterinary check-ups, tick prevention, and vigilance are your best tools for keeping your dog healthy.
If you live in an area where Lyme disease is common, discussing prevention options with your vet is a good idea. A little prevention goes a long way in ensuring your dog’s well-being.
Robin Logan, MCH, RSHom