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Parásitos

Ehrlichiosis

A tick-borne disease that affects the blood cells. It can progress through stages and become chronic if left untreated.

Severe🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • Fever
  • Lethargy and loss of appetite
  • Abnormal bleeding (nose, gums, pinpoint spots on the skin)
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Weight loss
  • In the chronic phase: anaemia, various complications

Causes

Ehrlichia bacteria transmitted by ticks. After the initial infection it can remain latent and reappear years later.

Diagnosis

Blood tests: serology, PCR and a complete blood count (which usually shows a low platelet count).

Treatment

A specific antibiotic (doxycycline) for several weeks. Early detection greatly improves the prognosis.

Prevention

Year-round tick control with an effective antiparasitic product.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if there is fever, lethargy or abnormal bleeding, especially if there has been tick exposure. The chronic phase is harder to treat.

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.