Is your pet protected from Lyme disease? April is Prevention of Lyme Disease month, and our team at South Hyland Pet Hospital is here to make sure your pets are properly protected. Lyme disease is spread through tick bites and can have serious impacts on your pet’s long-term health.
Here is what you need to know about Lyme disease and some simple steps you can take to prevent it.
What is Lyme Disease?
While it is commonly associated with ticks, Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium carried by ticks and transmitted to your pet through the tick’s bite. The bacteria is known as Borrelia burgdorferi and is released into your pet’s bloodstream while the tick feeds.
It can take weeks to months before your pet experiences any symptoms. The most common symptoms include generalized discomfort, lethargy, inappetence, and joint swelling or pain.
Reducing Your Pet’s Exposure
One of the first things you can do to keep your pet safe is to reduce their exposure to ticks. Ticks are frequently found in heavily wooded areas and tall grasses. Try to avoid these areas when possible and check your pet frequently for ticks. If you find one of these unwanted pests feeding on your furry friend, use a pair of tweezers to remove the tick safely.
Tick Preventatives
Even if you are trying to avoid tick exposure, your pet should be on a tick preventative. Tick preventatives come in various forms, including topical treatments, wearable collars, and oral medication. If you are unsure which product is best for your pet, our team is happy to assist you and recommend products that will meet your pet’s needs and reduce their risk of disease.
Vaccination
Another way you can protect your pet from Lyme disease is to get them vaccinated. We recommend the Lyme vaccine for our canine patients, and it is included in all of our canine wellness plans. If your dog has never received a Lyme vaccine, they will need a booster dose 2-4 weeks after their first shot. The Lyme vaccine must be administered every year and can be given during your pet’s annual wellness exam.
Testing for Lyme Disease
While preventing Lyme disease is our first priority, disease testing, and monitoring are essential for your pet’s long-term health. Lyme disease can be detected with the use of a simple blood test. While there are a variety of tests available, the most commonly used test detects the presence of antibodies in your pet’s blood. A positive test tells us that your pet has been exposed to the disease and their body has mounted an immune response.
Screening for Lyme disease is a standard part of your pet’s annual wellness exam. Additionally, this test can be performed if your pet is experiencing any disease symptoms.
Final Thoughts
While we are excited to celebrate Prevention of Lyme Disease Month, protecting your pet is important year-round. We hope these tips will help keep your pet protected. If you have questions about your pet’s risk of disease or their prevention plan, please give us a call at 952-884-2868.
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