What is the disease called from a tick bite in a dog? - briefly
The primary illness dogs acquire from tick bites is Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi; other common tick‑borne infections include ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis.
What is the disease called from a tick bite in a dog? - in detail
Tick bites can transmit several infectious agents to dogs; the most recognized condition is Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. The bacterium resides in the salivary glands of Ixodes species and enters the host during feeding.
Clinical manifestations vary with disease stage. Early infection may produce fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint swelling. Persistent infection often leads to polyarthritis, lameness that shifts between limbs, and occasionally renal involvement. Neurological signs such as facial nerve paralysis or seizures are less common but documented.
Diagnosis relies on a combination of history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) screens for antibodies; a positive result is confirmed by western blot or quantitative PCR to detect bacterial DNA. Joint fluid analysis may reveal inflammatory cells supportive of Lyme arthritis.
Therapeutic protocols typically start with doxycycline at 10 mg/kg orally every 12 hours for 4 weeks. Alternative agents include amoxicillin or azithromycin for dogs intolerant to tetracyclines. Anti‑inflammatory drugs alleviate joint pain; corticosteroids are reserved for severe immune‑mediated complications.
Prevention focuses on vector control and vaccination. Monthly acaricidal collars or topical spot‑on products reduce tick attachment. Annual administration of a licensed Lyme vaccine stimulates protective antibodies, decreasing the likelihood of clinical disease after exposure.
Other tick‑borne illnesses affecting canines include ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis), anaplasmosis (Anaplasma phagocytophilum), babesiosis (Babesia canis), and hepatozoonosis (Hepatozoon canis). Each presents distinct laboratory findings and treatment regimens, underscoring the importance of accurate identification of the causative agent.
Regular veterinary examinations, prompt removal of attached ticks, and adherence to preventive measures constitute the most effective strategy to minimize tick‑related morbidity in dogs.