Does your dog have high fever accompanied by weight loss? Your furry friend could have ehrlichiosis. For proper diagnosis and treatment, visiting a reputable vet in Calne is a must.

Read on to know more about this disease.

What Is Ehrlichiosis?

First gaining attention in the ‘70s, ehrlichiosis is an infectious disease that is caused by the biting of a tick that carries any of the bacteria belonging to the Ehrlichia group (hence, the name of the disease).

When you ask a vet in Chippenham, the two most common forms of ehrlichiosis in dogs are canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine granulocytic ehrlichiosis. The former is caused by the bacteria called Ehrlichia canis and is more common in places with warmer climates. The latter, on the other hand, is caused by the Ehrlichia ewingii bacteria. This bacteria is commonly carried by lone star ticks.

What Are Its Symptoms?

Take note that this disease will be harder to treat if it’s discovered and addressed late. This is why it’s important to know its symptoms so you can determine if it’s already time to visit a vet in Chippenham.

Here are its symptoms depending on the disease’s stage.

Acute. This first stage lasts for about two weeks to one month. In this phase, your dog will have fever and nose bleeds (or any other bleeding disorder). This can also be characterised by having sores in the dog’s mucous membranes and inflammation in their blood vessels. Diagnosis is typically done through a blood test.

Subclinical. In the second stage of ehrlichiosis, your dog won’t likely exhibit any symptoms. Some dog owners make the mistake of ignoring the symptoms from the first stage and think that their pet has already recovered. In fact, it can take up to five years before symptoms return — by then, the disease is already chronic. As in the previous stage, blood tests need to be done to diagnose the disease at this stage.

Chronic. At this stage, your dog will show more serious symptoms like having pale gums, breathing problems, and swollen lymph nodes. They could also exhibit lameness, disorientation, increased urination, and other behavioural changes. While chronic ehrlichiosis can still be managed, there are cases wherein it can lead to your canine’s death.

How Can It Be Treated?

The key in combating ehrlichiosis is early detection. If you yourself found a tick on your dog and your dog exhibits symptoms a few weeks later, you should waste no time and go to the most credible vet clinic in your area. Typically, antibiotics are given to dogs with this disease. Secondary treatment (like treatment for dehydration) is prescribed if the dog experiences side effects.

To prevent your dog from getting this disease, having regular tick checks is essential.

Looking for a trusted vet in Calne? Chalkland gives great care to pets and treats a wide array of diseases, including ehrlichiosis. They also offer a membership club to provide animals the personalised healthcare plan they deserve. Reach out to them at 01249 5888-5 or at [email protected]. For more details, visit their website at https://www.chalklandvets.co.uk/vets-in-calne.html.