A Look At Lyme Disease In Dogs
Dogs can suffer numerous problems when they have lyme disease. The disease can eventually cause damage to the joints, kidneys, or heart. Dogs that live in northeastern states, southern states, Mississippi, and California are usually affected. However, it can occur in virtually any part of the United States. This article will give you a brief intro to dog lyme disease.
Cause
Owners may be wondering how their dog can be affected by this disease. Your dog can be infected if he’s bitten by a tick. The tick that carries this illness is infected with a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi. The bacterium can’t be transferred immediately though, as the tick has to stay attached to your dog for one or two days.
Signs
If your dog is affected by this illness, he will show a range of symptoms. Many dogs experience limping in one of their forelegs. As the condition advances, the once barely noticeable limping gets much worse. Other symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, loss of appetite, and fever.
Diagnosis
Initially, the vet will review your dog’s medical history and symptoms. Lyme disease causes these signs to appear suddenly. The bacteria that causes this disease can be detected via a blood test.
Treatment
If your dog has lyme disease, it’s important to get him treated as soon as possible. If the disease is allowed to advanced, the joints and nerves may suffer irreversible damage. Lyme disease in dogs is treated with antibiotics. These drugs must be taken for at least three weeks. Also, lyme disease can become quite painful. Aspirin will help your dog deal with the pain.
Prognosis
Although treatment lasts for about three weeks, most dogs will start feeling better within a couple of days. It’s common for the condition to recur though. It could happen in a few weeks or in a few months. If this happens, your dog will need to take antibiotics again.
All owners should know a little something about illnesses in dogs. Fortunately for you, you can learn about a wide range of these conditions at dog-illnesses.com. So, come by right now to become informed.
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