Why Lyme Disease Matters
Lyme disease is one of the most common tick‑borne illnesses in dogs and humans. It’s caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, spread through the bite of infected black‑legged ticks (often called deer ticks).
For dogs, Lyme disease can lead to fever, swollen joints, lameness, and kidney problems if not detected early. Because ticks can also infect humans, protecting your dog protects your whole family.
How Lyme Disease Spreads
- Transmitted by the bite of infected Ixodes ticks (deer ticks).
- Ticks must usually be attached for 24–48 hours to transmit the bacteria.
- Dogs who roam in grassy, wooded, or rural areas are at the highest risk.
- Ticks are most active in spring, summer, and fall, though some survive year‑round.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Not all infected dogs show signs. About 5–10% develop symptoms, which may include:
- Fever
- Lameness (shifting from one leg to another, known as “shifting leg lameness”)
- Swollen, painful joints
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
- Swollen lymph nodes
In severe or chronic cases:
- Kidney issues (Lyme nephritis) – increased thirst, weight loss, vomiting.
- Rarely, heart and nervous system complications.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians may use:
- Blood tests: detect antibodies to Borrelia bacteria.
- Physical exam: swollen joints, fever.
- Rule‑outs: since symptoms look like other illnesses, other tests may be needed.
Treatment
Lyme disease in dogs is treatable with antibiotics.
- Doxycycline is the most common medication, often given for 4+ weeks.
- Other antibiotics (amoxicillin, cefuroxime) may be used.
- Most dogs improve within days of starting treatment, but full recovery may take weeks.
- Pain relievers or anti‑inflammatories can be prescribed for joint pain.
Chronic or untreated cases may lead to long‑lasting joint problems or kidney damage.
Caring For a Dog with Lyme Disease
At‑home checklist:
- Give all antibiotics exactly as prescribed — don’t stop early.
- Provide a soft, warm place for rest since joints may ache.
- Offer joint support chews or supplements if advised by your vet.
- Monitor for signs of kidney problems: excessive drinking, urination, or weight loss.
- Track energy, appetite, and any recurring lameness in a log for your vet.
Prevention Against Lyme Disease
Prevention is far easier than treatment.
- Tick prevention products: monthly topicals, chewables, or collars recommended by your vet.
- Vaccination: Lyme disease vaccines exist and may be recommended in high‑risk areas.
- Tick checks: after walks, check behind ears, between toes, under the tail, and on the belly.
- Landscaping: keep grass trimmed and yard clear of brush.
- Avoidance: limit access to tick‑heavy areas during peak seasons.
If a tick is found:
- Remove it carefully with fine‑tipped tweezers, pulling straight out without twisting.
- Disinfect the bite area and wash your hands afterwards.
Expectations and Long-Term Results
- Most dogs recover fully when treated promptly with antibiotics.
- Dogs with advanced infection may have recurring arthritis or permanent kidney issues.
- Some dogs may test positive for antibodies long after recovery; this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re still sick.
- Ongoing prevention is crucial since reinfection can happen after new tick bites.
Facts
- Lyme disease was first identified in Lyme, Connecticut in the 1970s.
- Ticks don’t jump or fly — they climb onto tall grass and “ambush” passing pets or people.
- Dogs are more resistant than humans, but once infected, complications can be severe.
Common Questions
Can humans catch Lyme disease from their dog?
Not directly — but ticks carried into your home on your dog can bite and infect you.
How soon after a tick bite do symptoms appear?
Dogs may not show signs for weeks to months after infection.
Should every dog get the Lyme vaccine?
Not always. It’s most useful in high‑risk regions. Speak with your vet about local tick prevalence.
What’s the long‑term outlook?
With fast treatment, most dogs recover well. Without treatment, they risk kidney failure or chronic joint problems.
Final Takeaway
Lyme disease is a tick‑borne illness that can cause painful joints, fever, and even kidney failure in dogs. The best protection is tick prevention, vaccines (in high‑risk areas), and daily tick checks.
If your dog shows lameness, fever, or other suspicious signs after tick exposure, see your vet immediately. With quick treatment, Lyme disease can be managed — but prevention will always be the best safeguard.