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Borrelia burgdorferi, it's a big word and also happens to be the scientific name for the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick, these microscopic bacteria are a specific type called spirochete.

Lyme disease is named for a town in Connecticut where it was believed to be first diagnosed in humans in 1975. At least three known variety of ticks can spread the disease but a majority of the transmissions are from the bite of a small tick known as the black-legged tick or commonly known as the Deer Tick. These tics can be difficult to locate since they can be smaller than the head of a pin. The ticks harbor and transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. Dogs in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic states are more susceptible to Lyme disease. The disease is also found in Australia, Europe, China and Japan.

Small rodents harbor the borrelia bacteria however these rodents are immune from getting ill from the bacteria. The tick larvae feed on the blood of these small rodents and in turn the tick becomes infected with the bacteria. The bacteria survive and multiply in the tick. The tick transmits the bacteria to dogs and humans when they bite and attach causing Lyme disease.

Early signs of Lyme disease in dogs can be a loss of appetite, fever and sluggishness. The signs have been compared to having Rheumatoid Arthritis. The main symptom seen in canines with Lyme disease is lameness or limping which can be seen in the early stages or later on. The lymph node will swell in the affected limb which can lead to the dog not being able to use the leg.

Not only can a dog experience joint damage but the bacteria can affect a dog's heart and nerve tissues. Some dogs will experience lifelong joint damage, pain and even paralysis if left untreated. The symptoms usually start to occur approximately two months after exposure but can take up to six months.

If diagnosed early, treatments can heal a dog before permanent impairment occurs. Antibiotics like Tetracyclines or doxycycline are helpful in treating Lyme disease. These antibiotics will be administered for at least three to four weeks. Should the disease re-occur, the same treatment will be administered.

A vaccine for the prevention of Lyme disease is available. Also removing the tick immediately can prevent the disease since the tick must remain attached to the dog for one to two days before the disease can be transmitted. The detection and removal of ticks is fundamental. A pair of small tweezers can be used to pull the tick from the skin. Grasp the tick near the tick's mouth parts and as close to the dog's skin as possible without crushing the tick. After pulling the tick from the skin, clean the area with an antiseptic.

The best defense is prevention. Use products on your dog that kill and repel ticks and treating your yard with products aimed at controlling ticks is also recommended.

Learn more about this author, Angela Pollock.
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