Header Logo
Preventing Lyme Disease in Dogs
May 15, 2020
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month! Lyme disease is a serious disease that can afflict both people and pets. As you may know, the disease is spread through ticks, which are unfortunately spreading throughout North America. Left untreated, Lyme disease can cause some very serious—and potentially life-threatening—issues, such as kidney failure and heart trouble. A veterinarian offers some prevention tips below.
Landscaping
Ticks love to lurk in long grasses, leaf litter, and piles of debris, such as fallen branches. Mowing your lawn regularly and keeping up with landscaping will make your property less hospitable to ticks. Putting a three-foot gravel path around the edge of your property can also help. Ticks hate being exposed, and will often turn back at these borders.Tick Check
Check Fido for ticks daily, especially if he’s been in areas that may be harboring ticks. Pay close attention to his paws, legs, belly, and ‘armpits.’ You’ll also want to check beneath your canine pal’s collar and between his toes. If you do find a tick, remove it immediately with tweezers or a tick remover.Parasite Control
Keeping up with Fido’s parasite control is very important! There are now many different products available. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.No Free Lunch
Many wild animals carry deer ticks. Keep your trash secure, so it doesn’t attract rodents. If you have gardens or fruit trees, pick up fallen produce immediately. Also, use fencing to keep critters out of your garden.Vaccines
There are vaccinations available for Lyme disease. However, these are not recommended for every dog. Ask your vet for more information.Protect Yourself
It’s important to take precautions for yourself as well. Wear protective clothing when you go into fields or wooded areas, and check yourself thoroughly when you get back inside.Tips
Keep in mind that not all ticks carry Lyme disease, and ticks have to be attached to your pet for 24-48 hours to transmit the disease. If your pet has been bitten, watch for signs of Lyme disease, which may not appear for a week or even longer. Some common signs are fever, lack of appetite, lethargy, and swollen joints. Fido may also act stiff and/or uncomfortable, and may limp or keep shifting his weight. Contact your vet right away if you notice any of these warning signs. Please contact us, your vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
Tips on Keeping Your Dog Safe During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and eat lots of food, but
Unusual Cat Eating Habits
Cats are mysterious creatures. We all know that, but did you know that their eating
Ways to Encourage Positive Behavior in Your Dog
Training your dog can feel like a full-time job. However, there are certain strategies you
Cat Care Tips for the Summer Heat
The summer is heating up, and so are our pets. But how do cats keep