Once ill, dogs can become feverish and lame in one or more joints.They also may exhibit sluggishness, and their lymph nodes may swell. A more serious form of the disease that affects the kidneys often is fatal.
What is the life expectancy of a dog with Lyme disease?
With appropriate treatment, most dogs will fully recover by the end of one month and Lyme disease won't affect their overall health or life expectancy. However, long-term infection with Borrelia can cause damage to a dog's kidneys, called Lyme nephritis.
What happens if my dog tested positive for Lyme disease?
Dogs with Lyme disease tend to get sick very acutely. They are normal one evening and then seem to become ill over- night. They will refuse to eat, run a fever, and generally have joint pain in multiple joints. The wrist joints are the most commonly affected joints, though any joint can become inflamed.
Should I be worried if my dog has Lyme disease?
Lyme bacteria cannot be transmitted from dogs to people, it can only be spread by the bite of an infected tick. But, if your dog is positive, that means that you and your family have also likely been in an area that is endemic for Lyme Disease.
How is Lyme disease treated in dogs?
Doxycycline is the most common antibiotic that is prescribed for Lyme disease, but other antibiotics are also effective. Treatment usually takes at least 4 weeks, and longer courses may be necessary in some cases. Your veterinarian may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory if your dog is especially uncomfortable.
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