As the summer season rolls in, so does the joy of outdoor adventures with our furry friends. Whether playing in the park or going on vacation, our pets love exploring nature with us. However, the lush greenery is a perfect hideaway for ticks and fleas. They pose a significant health risk to our beloved dogs and cats. Understanding these diseases and taking preventive measures is crucial for keeping our pets safe and healthy.
Tick-Borne Diseases
These tiny parasites can transmit several pathogens that cause tick-borne diseases (TBDs) through their bites. Here are some of the most common tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats:
1. Ehrlichiosis/Tick Fever
Ehrlichiosis occurs if the dog’s immune system fails to eliminate the protozoa transmitted by ticks. Such dogs show signs of fever, nasal bleeding, vision problems, or neurological disorders. Other signs may include limping, respiratory distress, and weight loss. Keeping your pooch protected against ticks is the most effective means of prevention. If treated in the early stage, most dogs return to normal soon. Remember, Ehrlichiosis is not contagious; only dogs bitten by the ticks can contract it.
2. Anaplasmosis
Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that causes joint pain, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, or respiratory issues. If a dog is diagnosed with anaplasmosis, strict tick control measures should be taken to prevent further damage. Fluid therapy along with antibiotic treatment is carried out by medical experts to cure the disease. Keep your dog tick protected to prevent this disease.
3. Babesiosis
Babesiosis is transmitted through ticks and infects red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Dogs with poor tick control are at a higher risk of developing babesiosis. Its symptoms include abnormal dark urine, fever, weakness, pale mucous membranes, depression, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen. Considering the severity of the disease, treatment differs from antibiotics to blood transfusions. Consult your doctor immediately on spotting these symptoms after tick removal.
4. Tick Bite Paralysis
Tick paralysis is a loss of voluntary muscle movement caused due to toxins present in tick saliva. It shows signs such as trouble in standing or sitting, partial/complete loss of muscle movements, loss of reflexes, and dilation of pupils. Unlike other tick-borne diseases, fever and flu symptoms are rare. With supportive medical aid, this disease can be diagnosed and cured. So, consult your veterinarian if you suspect the symptoms of Paralysis.
5. Lyme Disease
Ticks release a bacteria called *Borrelia burgdorferi*, which causes Lyme disease. The common symptoms of Lyme Disease include fever, loss of appetite, swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy. As a precautionary measure, get your dog vaccinated to protect them from Lyme Disease. Moreover, timely removal and prevention of ticks are necessary to avoid this disease. Since it is caused due to bacteria, the treatment includes antibiotics prescribed by your veterinary doctor.
Also check out: How to Prevent, Treat and Detect ticks in dogs
Key Takeaway
Despite preventive efforts, pets can still contract tick-borne diseases. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid the severity of tick-borne diseases. If you notice any signs of illness, consult your veterinarian immediately. Clinical diagnosis can help you identify the disease and with appropriate treatment. By using Tick Free, you can reduce the risk posed by ticks to our pets. Stay informed, use preventive products, and maintain vigilance to ensure the safety of your furry friend. Let’s work together to keep them healthy and tick-free!
FAQs for 5 Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs
- Can dogs recover from tick disease?
After receiving timely veterinary treatment, most dogs recover from tick-borne diseases within a week. However, symptoms like jaundice, kidney failure, and neurological disorders might be concerning in the long run.
- How to treat a tick bite on a dog?
- What kills ticks on dogs immediately?
Tick free spray is a natural tick repellent for dogs that helps to get rid off ticks within 5-10 minutes. It slows down the nervous system of ticks by paralysing them, thus loosening their latch and aiding in easy removal of ticks by combing them.
