Did you know according to the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) 1 out of 7 dogs tested positive for Lyme disease in Pennsylvania?  Here are some statistics:

  • 5.7% of those cases were in Montgomery County.
  • 2.43% of those cases were in Berks County.
  • Pennsylvania is considered a high risk state for Lyme disease in humans and dogs.
  • Three-quarters of human cases are contracted during activities around the home.
  • Nearly 75% of unvaccinated dogs will eventually test positive for the disease and each year some will develop the disease.

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Moses

We have a responsibility as pet parents to provide protection from Lyme and other tickborne diseases.  Prevention of tickborne diseases is much less expensive than treatment.  Treatment can include additional trips to the veterinarian, lab work and expensive antibiotics.  If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to further health complications including heart, kidney and neurological diseases.  Lyme disease can cause joint pain making it difficult for them to run, jump, and play like normal.

The doctors of GVH recommend:

  • Vaccinating your pets against Lyme disease yearly.
  • Use a monthly preventative such as Revolution on all the pets in your house year round. Nexgard is also available for dogs.
  • When walking your pet try to avoid the edging, high grass areas, vegetation, brush and leaf piles where ticks are found.
  • Brush your dog after being outside.
  • Examine your dog daily for ticks when the temperature is 40 degrees or warmer outside and remove ticks immediately from your pet.

Lyme disease affects each dog differently and some dogs show no signs at all.  It can take up to six months for symptoms to become visible.

The “Four L” symptoms of Lyme disease:

  • Limping

  • Lameness

  • Lethargy

  • Loss of Appetite

If you suspect your pet may have Lyme disease contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment.