Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks to dogs primarily during the spring and summer months. It causes flu-like symptoms in dogs and it is usually treated with antibiotics. Many dog owners choose to vaccinate (there are two types of vaccines, bacterin and a recombinant vaccine) their dogs against Lyme disease. However as with any vaccine, there are side effects to be aware of.
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Minor Side Effects
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Because the Lyme disease vaccine tricks the body into believing it has the disease, in order to develop antibodies, dogs who are vaccinated may demonstrate symptoms of Lyme disease such as muscle aches, joint pain and fatigue. These side effects are temporary and do not appear to leave behind any long-term effects.
Severe Side Effects
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Severe side effects of Lyme disease-vaccinations include sudden kidney failure, heart problems, and nervous-system problems. Nervous-system problems include onset of seizures and mood changes such as aggressiveness or unexplained fear. Heart problems include heart failure and swelling of the heart. These side effects can be life threatening.
Long-term Side Effects
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Long-term side effects of the Lyme disease vaccine include arthritis and skin conditions. Arthritis can affect the joints of the hips, back and legs, making it difficult for the dog to move around. Skin conditions can include eczema, also known as mange, and hair loss.
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