Signs of Tick Fever in Dogs

Tick fever, or tracker dog disease, is the most common name for erhlichiosis. The brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) carries the bacteria responsible for tick fever. Humans can get tick fever in the same way dogs do, from a brown dog tick bite. Humans can't catch tick fever from an infected dog.

  1. Early Symptoms

    • A dog will have a temperature during the first phase of tick fever, also called the acute stage. He will have trouble breathing, noticeably swollen lymph glands, a loss of energy and a lack of appetite. He may exhibit bleeding problems such as sudden nosebleeds or blood in the stool. A dog with with tick fever may also become uncoordinated.

    Subclinical Symptoms

    • A dog who develops the chronic form of tick fever will enter this phase of the illness but will not exhibit additional symptoms. Your vet will need to perform a blood test to determine whether the dog is still infected. Blood work will show any remaining bacteria in the dog's bloodstream. A dog can be cured during the acute phase.

    Chronic Symptoms

    • The signs of chronic tick fever are similar to the early symptoms but far more severe. Instead of a slight nosebleed, the dog will hemorrhage from the nose or eyes. The kidneys or bowels may hemorrhage as well. The dog won't just lack energy, but will not want to move. The dog will often be lame, may have swollen legs and will have noticeable coordination problems.

    Time Frame

    • According to veterinarian James W. Way, the acute phase can occur from eight to 20 days after the tick has bitten the dog. The sub-clinical phase can last as little as two weeks but may last for years if the dog develops chronic tick fever. The dog can die in a matter of days once chronic symptoms begin. Veterinary treatment, which may include blood transfusions, must be done immediately.

    Prevention

    • Prevent ticks from biting your dog to avoid tick fever. Flea and tick repellents such as collars, medications and spot-on treatments can be used to repel and kill adult ticks. Veterinarians recommend checking a dog after outdoor play time, especially in the woods or high grass, to be sure that ticks aren't on the coat or body.