Lyme disease in dogs: How to spot and prevent dangerous symptoms

Tick season is in full swing, and the risk of Lyme disease in dogs increases. How can you recognize if your pet has been infected with this dangerous disease? These behaviours in your four-legged friend should signal that it's time to visit the veterinarian.

The idyllic sight of a dog running through tall grass melts every owner's heart, but often, the pet brings home an unpleasant surprise from an outing, such as a tick hidden in its fur.

It's not enough to remove the malicious arachnid from the animal's skin, as such an encounter often ends with unpleasant consequences of Lyme disease for the dog. How can we check if our pet will not suffer from unpleasant consequences after a bite?

Often, the condition of a dog infected with Lyme disease can be recognized by its unusual behaviour. What signals should be concerning?

Lethargy in an otherwise happy and energetic dog should prompt us to seek a health-related cause. Lyme disease often causes the animal to have problems walking, stagger, or be unable to stand up on its own.

We should also be alerted by the animal's higher-than-normal body temperature. Especially when this is a recurring issue, and the dog has a fever from time to time, this should not be taken lightly, and it is better to check the cause quickly.

Lack of appetite, bald patches on the dog's skin, or increased thirst leading to more frequent urination are the most common symptoms of Lyme disease. It is worth checking the pet's health and performing essential blood and urine tests.

To minimize the risk of Lyme disease, during warm periods, remember to check the skin after walks and use special, child-safe, and environment-friendly anti-tick collars.