Lyme Disease and Prevention
If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably heard about Lyme disease but may not know all the ins and outs. Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium that’s transferred to pets (and humans) through tick bites—specifically, the deer tick. When the weather gets warm, these tiny critters come out to play, and unfortunately, our furry friends are their favorite playground.
What Are the Signs Your Pet Could Have Lyme Disease?
So, how would you even know if your beloved furball has Lyme disease? While not all pets show symptoms, common signs to look out for include:
- Limping or favoring a leg
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Low energy or lethargy
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to make an appointment with your vet ASAP. You can reach us here at Levan Road Veterinary Hospital in Livonia, MI, at (734) 464-6281.
Lyme Disease Prevention
Alright, now for the big question: How can you protect your pet from Lyme disease? Lyme vaccines offer a substantial layer of defense against Lyme disease. However, no vaccine is 100% foolproof, so it’s crucial to integrate other preventive measures as well.
Additional Methods of Prevention
We all know the saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” right? So, besides vaccination, here are some other preventive measures you can take:
- Regular year round tick checks and preventatives
- Topical and oral tick preventatives
- Keeping your yard tick-free by maintaining short grass and clearing away leaf litter
When it comes to Lyme disease, you can never be too cautious. So if you haven’t yet, consider calling us at (734) 464-6281 to make an appointment for a Lyme vaccine or to discuss other preventive measures. It’s all about taking steps today for a happier, healthier tomorrow for your pet.