When a tick bites a dog, what is the disease called? - briefly
Ticks can transmit Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease in dogs. In certain areas the bite may also convey ehrlichiosis or anaplasmosis, but the primary disease associated with tick exposure is Lyme disease.
When a tick bites a dog, what is the disease called? - in detail
A tick attachment can transmit several infectious agents to a canine host. The most frequently identified condition is Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. Clinical signs may include fever, lameness due to joint inflammation, swollen lymph nodes, and, in advanced cases, kidney dysfunction. Diagnosis relies on serologic testing for antibodies, PCR detection of bacterial DNA, or observation of characteristic skin lesions such as erythema migrans. Treatment typically involves a course of doxycycline for 4 weeks; severe renal involvement may require additional supportive therapy.
Other tick‑borne illnesses that can follow a bite include:
- Ehrlichiosis – infection with Ehrlichia canis; presents with fever, lethargy, thrombocytopenia, and anemia; doxycycline for 2–4 weeks is standard therapy.
- Anaplasmosis – caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum; symptoms overlap with ehrlichiosis; doxycycline regimen similar.
- Babesiosis – protozoal infection (Babesia canis); produces hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly; treatment combines imidocarb dipropionate with supportive care.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever – Rickettsia rickettsii infection; manifests as fever, petechial rash, and vascular inflammation; doxycycline administered promptly improves prognosis.
- Tick paralysis – neurotoxic effect of certain tick species; rapid onset of ascending weakness leading to respiratory failure; removal of the tick usually resolves symptoms within hours.
Prevention strategies focus on regular use of approved acaricides, routine inspection of the coat after outdoor activity, and vaccination against Lyme disease where available. Early detection and prompt antimicrobial therapy reduce morbidity and mortality associated with these vector‑borne conditions.