A dog was bitten by a tick – what are the risks? - briefly
Ticks can transmit pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi («Lyme disease»), Ehrlichia canis («ehrlichiosis»), Anaplasma phagocytophilum («anaplasmosis») and Rickettsia rickettsii («Rocky Mountain spotted fever»), all of which may cause fever, joint pain, lethargy and organ dysfunction. Heavy infestations may also induce anemia, localized inflammation and secondary bacterial infection.
A dog was bitten by a tick – what are the risks? - in detail
When a canine is exposed to a tick attachment, several health hazards may develop. The primary concerns involve transmission of infectious agents, toxin‑mediated reactions, and local tissue damage.
Infectious diseases transmitted by ticks include:
- Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi; clinical signs may progress from fever and lameness to chronic arthritis and renal involvement.
- Ehrlichiosis, resulting from Ehrlichia canis; typical manifestations are fever, thrombocytopenia, and splenomegaly.
- Anaplasmosis, linked to Anaplasma phagocytophilum; symptoms often involve fever, lethargy, and joint pain.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever, associated with Rickettsia rickettsii; presents with fever, petechiae, and vascular inflammation.
- Babesiosis, caused by Babesia spp.; leads to hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and possible organ failure.
Toxin‑mediated reactions primarily involve tick paralysis. Neurotoxic proteins secreted by certain tick species disrupt neuromuscular transmission, producing progressive weakness that can culminate in respiratory failure if untreated. Prompt removal of the tick generally resolves the paralysis.
Local effects include:
- Dermatitis at the bite site, ranging from mild erythema to ulceration.
- Secondary bacterial infection, often involving Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species, which may require antimicrobial therapy.
- Anemia due to chronic blood loss, especially in cases of heavy infestations.
Recognition of early signs improves outcomes. Key indicators are:
- Fever or elevated temperature.
- Lethargy or reduced activity.
- Joint swelling or lameness.
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
- Progressive weakness, particularly in the hind limbs.
Diagnostic approaches consist of serologic testing for specific pathogens, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, complete blood count, and biochemical panels. Microscopic examination of blood smears may reveal intra‑erythrocytic parasites in babesiosis.
Therapeutic measures depend on the identified condition:
- Antibiotics such as doxycycline are first‑line for most bacterial tick‑borne infections.
- Antiprotozoal agents, e.g., imidocarb, address babesiosis.
- Supportive care, including fluid therapy and analgesics, mitigates systemic effects.
- In cases of paralysis, removal of the tick and monitoring of respiratory function are critical; mechanical ventilation may be required for severe weakness.
Prevention strategies reduce exposure risk:
- Regular application of acaricidal spot‑on treatments or oral preventatives.
- Routine inspection of the coat after outdoor activity, focusing on ears, armpits, and tail base.
- Maintenance of yard vegetation to limit tick habitat.
- Use of tick‑repellent collars approved for canine use.
Overall, tick attachment poses a multi‑faceted threat to canine health. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.