Bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, found in ticks and transferred from the tick to dogs through bites, causes canine Lyme disease. According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook (Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al; 2007), not all dogs bit by infected ticks will get sick.
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Misconception
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Since the first symptoms of canine Lyme disease are lameness and swollen joints, many owners assume their dogs have arthritis and do not get a proper diagnosis or treatment. Mar Vista Animal Medical Center notes fever only happens to some dogs with Lyme disease.
Tests
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A veterinarian will do blood tests and tests of the fluid in the joints to diagnose canine Lyme disease. The dog will need two test results, because the first will often be a false positive.
Vaccination
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According to Cornell University, dogs vaccinated against Lyme disease need to take two specific blood tests called the ELISA test and the canine western blot test.
Medications
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Treatment for canine Lyme disease includes the antibiotic doxycycline or amoxicillin. The canine will take the antibiotics for two to four weeks.
Time Frame
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Dogs can begin to show symptoms moths after being bitten by a tick. According to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, antibiotics should make the dog look healthier in just 48 hours.
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