Lyme disease is carried by deer, mice, and a number of other small animals who then come in contact with your dog or cat allowing a tick or ticks to jump to them and embed themselves under the skin. One comforting fact is that if your pet is diagnosed with Lyme disease, the risk of you getting it from them is almost nil. Typically, domestic animals will not have enough of the required bacteria in their blood to allow a tick to become infected. Quick removal of a tick will also reduce any chance of infection which is why you should inspect your pet every time they come inside.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing Lyme disease can be fairly simple and is generally made based upon a history of the animal living in an area where it is known to be prevalent, the pet showing signs of arthritis, and responding in a favorable manner to treatment. Bloodwork can be done, but if you live in an area where Lyme disease is known to be prevalent, most animals will test positive even if they are not infected. You should also keep in mind that there many other reasons for animals to have arthritis. Only a qualified veterinarian at an animal hospital in Chicago can make a diagnosis of Lyme disease.
Prevention
The best way to prevent your pet from coming into contact with infected ticks is to avoid them if at all possible, especially during the spring months when the younger ticks are at their most active. To remove the tick from your pet you should use tweezers, pinching the tick where they enter the skin. Keep in mind that the earlier the tick is removed from the skin, the less are the chances of infection. If you think your dog or cat is infected, call Portage Park Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
