Lyme disease

Canine Lyme disease: Protective measures to use for your pet

If you have had of tick or probably known diseases caused by it, then the mention of Lyme disease is by no means a surprise. A deadly disease by far, Lyme disease presents a risk not only for the animals in the field but our loving pets.

Dogs are probably the most vulnerable as ticks can attack anywhere, irrespective of their body parts. It can be the neck, feet, head, or even the ears. Since the bites cause little pain initially, the dog and the owner hardly notice it. However, there are signs of discomfiture that indicate potential tick bites hidden in the coat of the dog.

Symptoms to watch out for

The first indication would be a rise in the dog’s temperature, with flu-like symptoms like chills, fatigue, body aches, and a headache. Any signs of a rash emanating from the skin, restlessness and peculiar limping are also apparent signs to convince you that the dog is infected.

What to do

With fleas and tick being an all-year problem, most states in the country are susceptible to Lyme disease. And in consideration to this, there is a need always to take preventive measures to protect our canine friends.

Not allowing the dog to roam freely in open environments with much vegetation is a sure way to prevent ticks. Dogs especially those in the countryside, are often victims since the grassy or wooded areas are tick prevalent.

However, you can still safeguard your pet when admitting it in a tick-infested habitat by using a variety of sprays, collars devices, and other products to repel or kill the ticks. TickEase, the tick removal tweezers, is an example of products found in the stores that can help fight ticks.
Lastly, tick patrol is the single most effective way to keep your pug free from the inconvenience caused by ticks. A thorough tick check, from the paws to the tip of the tail should enable you to catch and remove most if not all of the Lyme causing threats.

Vets also recommend the use of Permethrin insecticides to accompany careful grooming of pets. Alongside that, the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend permethrin treated apparels and products.

But an important word of caution is to be careful with products or insecticide brands since these tick preventatives can be fatal. It’s best to consult your vet before picking the preventative measure to take.

Resources: CDC, Statista, CDC, Pest Strategies, Lyme Disease Association