What can a tick cause in a dog? - briefly
Ticks can transmit infectious diseases—including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever—and may also cause local skin inflammation, anemia, or tick‑borne paralysis. Prompt removal and veterinary care are essential to prevent these complications.
What can a tick cause in a dog? - in detail
Ticks are vectors of a range of canine diseases and can inflict direct tissue damage. The most common health problems associated with tick attachment include:
- Lyme disease – caused by Borrelia burgdorferi; signs are fever, joint swelling, lameness, and kidney dysfunction in severe cases.
- Ehrlichiosis – Ehrlichia canis infection; manifests as fever, lethargy, thrombocytopenia, and weight loss.
- Anaplasmosis – Anaplasma phagocytophilum; produces fever, muscle pain, and neutropenia.
- Babesiosis – Babesia spp.; leads to hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and dark urine.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever – Rickettsia rickettsii; characterized by fever, rash, and vascular inflammation.
- Tick paralysis – neurotoxic protein secreted by certain species; results in progressive weakness, ataxia, and possible respiratory failure if untreated.
- Local irritation – inflammation, pruritus, and secondary bacterial infection at the bite site.
- Anemia – chronic blood loss from heavy infestations, especially in puppies or small breeds.
Transmission typically requires the tick to remain attached for 24–48 hours. Clinical presentation varies with the pathogen and the duration of infestation. Laboratory diagnostics involve serology, PCR, or blood smear examination, depending on the suspected disease. Prompt removal of the tick, followed by antimicrobial therapy (e.g., doxycycline for most bacterial infections) and supportive care, improves outcomes.
Preventive measures include regular use of acaricidal collars, spot‑on treatments, oral preventives, and routine inspection of the coat after outdoor activity. Maintaining a clean environment and avoiding high‑risk habitats reduce exposure. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent chronic complications such as glomerulonephritis, immune‑mediated arthritis, or irreversible neurological deficits.