Warning To Duluth – Superior Area Dog Owners From Vet Medical Team

While we were talking with Animal Allies today, Nicole brought up a reminder for dog owners to be proactive with protecting their furry family members as their medical team has seen an uptick in disease.

The Animal Allies medical team takes in stray or surrendered pets and gives them a full evaluation. In the last month, they have seen a big increase in the number of dogs that are testing positive for Lyme Disease.

Lyme disease is one of the most common tickborne illnesses in the world. Ticks attach themselves to their host by crawling to the tips of tall grass. When their target approaches they latch on and then crawl to find a good place to bite. If the tick is carrying the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease, it will take 24-48 hours to infect the dog.

Dogs that are infected will show symptoms. According to Cornell University, those symptoms can include:

• lameness
• joint swelling
• swollen lymph nodes
• fatigue
• loss of appetite

Lyme Disease in dogs is treated with a month-long course of antibiotics. The treatment is usually effective, but in many cases, the dog will carry the disease for the rest of their lives and are more likely to develop arthritis.

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So how can it be prevented? Talk to your veterinarian about preventive options. There are vaccines available. There are also tick and flea collars that kill the ticks if they latch on.

A little bit of precaution and care for your pup can ensure they have a long and healthy life.