You have probably heard about Lyme disease in the news over the past several years. You may even know someone who has been affected by it personally. This disease has been on the rise in Manitoba, as Deer ticks are making their way further across our province. It can have serious consequences for humans.
Lyme Disease is an infection that is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted through the bite of an infected Deer tick. Dogs appear to be the species most often affected, but infections have been seen in cats, horses and cattle. Although people can be infected with Lyme Disease, they do not get it directly from their dogs. The ticks that are responsible for transmitting the disease to dogs are the same ones that transmit it to humans. Meaning that if you are finding Deer Ticks in your area, on your pet or yourself, you are at risk of exposure.
Here are a few ways you can protect yourself and your dog:
- Check yourself and your dog regularly for ticks, especially during and after outdoor activities.
- Avoid areas of tall grass and thick underbrush while out for walks…stick to the trails!
- Use a tick prevention product on your pet (topical or oral) to help kill ticks quickly, thus preventing infection in your pet and decreasing your exposure risk.
Written by: Brenda Kolebaba, RVT
