Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month | Greenway Animal Hospital

Lyme disease is one of the most common tick-borne illnesses affecting dogs across the United States. During Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month, Greenway Animal Hospital encourages pet owners to learn more about this serious condition and take proactive steps to protect their furry family members.

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. Dogs that spend time outdoors—especially in grassy, wooded, or rural areas—are at a higher risk. Even a leisurely walk through a neighborhood park can expose your dog to ticks during peak seasons in spring and summer.

The symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs can be subtle at first but can lead to more severe issues if left untreated. Common signs include lameness due to inflamed joints, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. In some cases, Lyme disease can cause kidney damage, which may be fatal if not caught early. Because symptoms can mimic other conditions, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing Lyme disease is far easier than treating it. One of the most important ways to protect your dog is by using veterinarian-recommended tick preventatives year-round. At Greenway Animal Hospital, we offer safe and effective options tailored to your pet’s specific needs and lifestyle. Preventative medications can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites and subsequent infections.

Another key step in Lyme disease prevention is daily tick checks. After your dog has spent time outdoors, thoroughly examine their body, paying close attention to areas like the ears, neck, armpits, groin, and between the toes. Ticks can be tiny and easy to miss, so using your hands to feel for small bumps can be just as important as visual inspections. If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible using fine-tipped tweezers, and be careful to pull it out completely without crushing the body.

Vaccination is another valuable tool in preventing Lyme disease. Greenway Animal Hospital offers a Lyme disease vaccine that may be recommended depending on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. While the vaccine doesn’t guarantee complete immunity, it can greatly reduce the severity of illness if your pet is exposed.

Maintaining your yard can also help minimize the tick population around your home. Keep grass trimmed short, remove brush and leaf litter, and consider creating a barrier between wooded areas and your yard with wood chips or gravel. These simple landscaping techniques can make your outdoor spaces less inviting to ticks.

Finally, stay informed and proactive. Schedule regular wellness exams, and don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns you have about Lyme disease with our veterinary team. The sooner an infection is detected, the better the chances of a full recovery. During Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month, we encourage all pet owners to take action and build habits that will protect their pets not just for a season, but for life.

At Greenway Animal Hospital, your pet’s health and happiness are our highest priorities. Together, we can fight Lyme disease and ensure that your dog enjoys all the outdoor adventures they love, safely and confidently.

Ready to protect your dog from Lyme disease? Contact Greenway Animal Hospital today at (803)-239-4477 to schedule a wellness exam or to discuss the best prevention plan for your pet. Let's work together to keep your best friend healthy and tick-free all year long!