Tick-borne diseases like Anaplasmosis can pose a serious health risk for humans, pets, and farm animals nationwide. Our Los Angeles County veterinarians share the symptoms of Anaplasmosis in dogs and how this potentially serious condition can be treated.
What is Anaplasmosis In Dogs
Anaplasmosis is a disease that is caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum. This bacteria is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, which can be either a black-legged tick (also known as deer tick, responsible for spreading Lyme disease) or a brown dog tick. This condition is potentially serious and can be found throughout the United States, but it is more common in the Midwest, West Coast, and Northeast regions.
Symptoms Of Anaplasmosis In Dogs
Some dogs that become infected with anaplasmosis may be asymptomatic, but when they do show signs, the most common ones are flu-like symptoms. More severe symptoms may include:
- Lethargy
- Pain
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Bloody nose
- Lameness
- Joint pain
- diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Cough
- Breathing difficulties
- Seizures
- Meningitis
- Ataxia (impaired movement)
- Chills
Does Anaplasmosis Resolve Itself In Dogs?
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above in your dog, you must take them to the vet for an examination. Anaplasmosis, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications for your pet, such as respiratory failure, organ failure, and bleeding problems. In some severe cases, Anaplasmosis can even be fatal for dogs.
Diagnosis Of Anaplasmosis In Dogs
Diagnosing Anaplasmosis in dogs can be challenging because the symptoms are vague and may be associated with other diseases. It is important to inform your veterinarian about your dog's recent activities, particularly if they have been in contact with infected ticks.
Providing accurate information about the symptoms and the time they first appeared can help your veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis. Anaplasmosis symptoms usually appear in dogs 2-4 weeks after a tick bite.
During the examination, your veterinarian will look for signs of the disease and ticks on your pet. Additionally, they may conduct an antibody test to determine if your dog has tested positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria.
Treatment Of Anaplasmosis In Dogs
Anaplasmosis in dogs can be treated with a course of an antibiotic such as Doxycycline, Minocycline, Tetracycline, or Chloramphenicol. Most dogs improve within 24- 48 hours after beginning the antibiotic treatment.
Preventing Anaplasmosis In Dogs
One of the most reliable ways to help prevent Anaplasmosis in dogs is by year-round keeping your pet on tick-prevention meds. You can also help your dog avoid contracting tick-borne diseases by keeping your pup away from areas where ticks are most likely to be hiding (long grass and brush), and checking your dog daily for ticks so they can be removed before transmission occurs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.