What are the symptoms of lyme disease (borreliosis)?

Lameness that shifts from one leg to another. Joint pain and inflammation. Fever. Lethargy and loss of appetite. Swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases: kidney problems

Is Lyme disease (borreliosis) contagious?

Lyme disease (borreliosis) does not spread directly between animals. However, it can affect people in certain circumstances.

Infecciosas

Lyme disease (borreliosis)

A tick-borne disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia. It mainly affects the joints. It is a zoonosis (people can also catch it from ticks).

Moderate🐕 Dogs Zoonosis

Symptoms to watch for

• Lameness that shifts from one leg to another
• Joint pain and inflammation
• Fever
• Lethargy and loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes
• In severe cases: kidney problems

Causes

The bacterium Borrelia, transmitted by ticks of the genus Ixodes. The tick must remain attached for quite a few hours to transmit it.

Diagnosis

Blood test (serology) plus clinical signs. Many exposed dogs do not develop the disease.

Treatment

An antibiotic (doxycycline) for several weeks. The prognosis is good if treated early.

Prevention

Tick control, removing them promptly (before they transmit the bacterium), and a vaccine available in some areas.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if there is shifting lameness with fever, especially after tick bites.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.