Hidden Danger: Understanding Lyme Disease in Dogs and How to Protect Your Pet

Introduction

Lyme disease, otherwise known as Lyme Borreliosis, has remained one of the more common tick-borne diseases in the world. It is caused by the infection from spirochete bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. Transmission occurs mainly via Ixodes ticks. Even though well-known, Lyme disease has symptoms in canines which tend to resemble other musculoskeletal and systemic illnesses.

Lyme disease in dog

Pathogenesis of Infection

What is unique in comparison to other pathogens is that symptoms of Lyme disease are not immediate. In fact, after being bitten by an infected tick, it takes 24-48 hours of attachment before the bacteria travels to the saliva glands from the midgut of the parasite and infects the dog. Following the initial infection, the bacteria will disseminate throughout the connective tissue, causing either localized or systemic inflammation.

Clinical Presentation 

Less than 5-10 percent of canine infections result in actual clinical signs; however, when observed, these include:

Shifting-leg Lameness: 

The inflammation of the joints results in intermittent lameness which tends to move from one limb to another.

Joint Swelling: 

Inflammation can lead to warmth, pain, and even swelling in affected joints (carpus and hock).

Systemic Lethargy: 

"Slowing down" accompanied by fever and a lack of appetite.

Lyme Nephritis: 

It is the severe stage of the disease where the kidneys are affected. Clinical signs of Lyme nephritis include polydipsia and polyuria.

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnosis should involve clinical history and lab work:

Serology: 

Most practices conduct an ELISA test that detects anti-c6 antibodies. Positive results indicate exposure but do not confirm the presence of the disease itself.

Quantification C6: 

This test allows to determine the titer of anti-c6 antibodies. The result helps veterinarians to determine whether antibiotics should be prescribed to a patient.

Protein/Creatinine Ratio: 

An important tool to screen dogs for early stages of Lyme Nephritis.

Treatment and Recovery

The standard for treatment of symptomatic Lyme disease is a 28 to 30-day treatment course with Doxycycline. Improvement is evident within 48 hours. However, completing the entire course is necessary to prevent the persistence of the bacteria in joints.

Prevention

As far as veterinary medicine goes, prevention is always better than cure.

External Parasites: 

Isoxazoline-class preventatives (oral chews) or topicals containing fipronil.

Immunization: 

For dogs from high risk areas, vaccines may serve as additional protection.

Environment Modification: 

Keeping grass low and getting rid of any brush near your home will decrease potential hiding spots for ticks.

Conclusion

Lyme disease is a complex ailment requiring a pro-active stance from veterinary professionals and owners of pets alike. Focusing efforts on early testing and prevention will enable us to reduce the risk of developing any serious long-term consequences associated with the condition.