Lyme disease is transmitted by tick bites and caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. Many dogs do not initially display any signs of this disease, and often symptoms do not show up for several months after the tick bite. Discuss tick control options and lyme disease prevention with your dog's veterinarian.
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Lameness
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Lameness is one of the most common and noticeable symptoms of canine lyme disease. The dog's legs and joints may be swollen, warm, stiff and painful. The lameness can start in one leg, appear to get better and then jump to another leg; this is referred to as shifting-leg lameness. Lameness due to lyme disease often comes on very suddenly.
Other Physical Symptoms
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A dog with lyme disease can have a fever between 103 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, difficulty breathing, swollen lymph nodes (especially near the tick bite) and a cough. Watch for signs of kidney failure. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, frequent urination, changes in appetite and edema. In rare cases of lyme disease, the dog can experience heart complications, nervous system problems and seizures.
Behavioral Symptoms
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A dog with lyme disease may become depressed, lethargic and lose its appetite. The dog may become sensitive when you touch it. One very rare symptom is aggressive behavior.
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