Ehrlichia Canis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and the 28-Day Doxycycline Protocol
Introduction It is a rickettsial organism responsible for the infection of the white blood cells, called monocytes , in dogs. Primarily spread through the bite of the Brown Dog Tick ( Rhipicephalus sanguineus ), the infection ranges from being a mildly serious disease to a deadly chronic disease if not discovered earlier. Ehrlichia canis is transmitted within hours of a tick bite and requires long-term antibiotic therapy. The Three Phases of Ehrlichiosis Acute Phase (2-4 Weeks After Infection) Fever and weakness. Enlargement of lymph nodes ( Lymphadenopathy ). Low platelet count (Thrombocytopenia). Recovery occurs at this phase, but the parasite remains within the spleen. Subclinical Phase ("The Hidden Phase") Dog looks fine; no clinical signs are apparent. Phase that can go on for months or even years. Chronic Phase (The Deadly Phase) Weight loss, bone marrow depression. Epistaxis (Nosebleeds) – due to very low platelets. Uveitis and neurological signs. Peripheral edema ...