Lyme Disease in Dogs: Tick-Borne Danger
Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks and can cause chronic joint, kidney, and heart problems. Learn about prevention and treatment.
Lyme disease (borreliosis) is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria transmitted through tick bites. While less common in Macau than in temperate regions, it remains a concern for dogs that travel or come into contact with infected ticks. Left untreated, Lyme disease can cause chronic joint disease, kidney damage, and heart problems.
Key Points
- Transmitted by ticks — prevention is the best defense
- Not all infected dogs show symptoms
- Classic sign: shifting-leg lameness that comes and goes
- Can cause serious kidney damage (Lyme nephritis)
- Treatment is antibiotics for 28+ days
- Vaccine is available but controversial
Transmission and Risk
Lyme disease is transmitted by Ixodes (deer) ticks. The tick must be attached for 24-48 hours to transmit the bacteria. This is why prompt tick removal is so important. Dogs that spend time in grassy, wooded areas are at highest risk. While Lyme disease is more prevalent in North America and Europe, cases have been reported in Asia.
Recognizing Lyme Disease
Many infected dogs never show signs. Those that do typically develop: shifting-leg lameness (the lameness moves from one leg to another), joint swelling and pain, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. The most serious complication is Lyme nephritis — a form of kidney failure that can be fatal. Signs of kidney involvement include increased thirst, vomiting, and weight loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Lyme disease is diagnosed through blood tests (antibody tests and sometimes PCR). Treatment is a 28-day course of doxycycline. Most dogs respond well to treatment, especially when caught early. However, some dogs remain persistently infected and may relapse. Dogs with Lyme nephritis have a much poorer prognosis.
Prevention
Tick prevention is the most effective way to prevent Lyme disease. Use year-round tick preventives, check your dog for ticks after outdoor activities, and remove attached ticks immediately with fine-tued tweezers. A Lyme disease vaccine is available but is controversial and not universally recommended — discuss with your vet.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Shifting-leg lameness or joint stiffness
- Fever and lethargy
- Swollen joints
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss
- You found an engorged tick on your dog
How RVC Can Help
RVC can test for Lyme disease and provide treatment. We also offer comprehensive tick prevention programs. Call +853 6677 6611.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.