What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme is an infectious disease commonly carried by deer ticks and caused by a bacteria called Borrelia.
The infection is transmitted to your pet when they are bitten by an infected tick. Ticks become infected when they feed on other animals which are already infected, most commonly birds, deer, and mice.
The most common symptoms of lyme disease in pets include, general malaise or discomfort and lameness due to inflamed joints. It's not uncommon for pets with Lyme to experience a lack of appetite and depression.
Other symptoms of Lyme disease include a sensitivity to touch, difficulty breathing and fever.
How can Lyme disease be diagnosed?
If you think that your pet may be suffering from Lyme disease contact us to make an appointment to see your Waxhaw vet as soon as possible.
In order to diagnose Lyme disease your vet will run a series of tests including x-rays, blood tests, urine analysis, fecal exam, and take a complete history of your pet's health. Your vet may also draw fluid from your pet's affected joints to be tested for Lyme.
What happens if my pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is treatable in pets. When a pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease, they are generally treated on an outpatient basis, and no hospitalization is required. Antibiotics will be prescribed for your pet, usually to be taken for a minimum of four weeks. An anti-inflammatory pain medication may be prescribed for your pet if they are especially uncomfortable.