History

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  Lyme disease was first discovered in dogs in 1985. The common deer tick was found to be the primary carrier of the bacteria Borrelia Borgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease. DNA testing of samples from a white-footed mouse dating back from 1895 in Massachusetts has proven that Lyme disease has existed in the wild for over a century.
  
  

Geography

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  Lyme disease can be found in higher percentages in the northeast states, such as Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts. Mid to lower percentages of the disease can be found within all of the United States. The higher percentage states range at 85 percent, where the mid to lower percentage states can range from 10 percent and lower.
  
  

Identification

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  Symptoms of Lyme disease do not usually show until about two to five months after being bitten by an infected deer tick. If you have removed a deer tick from your pet and have concerns, take your pet to your veterinarian for blood tests.
  
  

Symptoms

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  Symptoms can include and are not limited to a high fever (103 to 105 degrees F.), swollen lymph glands, walking unevenly, swollen joints, decreased appetite and even possible neurological disorders.
  
  

Treatment

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  Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is commonly prescribed to treat Lyme disease in your canine. Administration of the antibiotic is expected to occur for three to four weeks. You can begin to notice improvement in your dog's condition after two to three days of receiving antibiotics.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

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  Inspect your pet regularly with a magnifying glass if you live in an area where deer ticks are common. If you find a tick on your canine, remove it immediately and ensure that you have removed the head out of your canine's skin. A Lyme disease vaccine is also available through your veterinarian. Discuss all possible options with your veterinarian.