Ehrlichiosis
1-4 months after the tick bite can be either mild or severe. Weight loss, anemia, neurological signs, bleeding, inflammation of the eye, edema (fluid accumulation) in the hind legs and fever may be seen.
If a dog becomes chronically infected, the disease can keep coming back, especially during periods of stress.
A highly accurate blood test which tests for the dog's antibodies called the indirect immunofluorescent antibody (IFA)
test.
The antibodies may not be detected in the early phase of the disease since it takes
some time for the body to make them. As the disease progresses, the antibody level will
rise significantly.
Treatment used,
The antibiotics tetracycline or doxycycline are used. Treatment is for 2-3 weeks.
Some dogs will need blood transfusions or intravenous fluids depending on the severity of the disease.
Tick control is the main way to prevent ehrlichiosis. Products which repel and kill ticks
for Dogs are excellent choices. Tick collars containing the active ingredient amitraz
are also used.
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