Anaplasmosis in dogs

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that affects dogs and can cause serious health problems. Our New Hope veterinarians share information about recognizing the symptoms of anaplasmosis in dogs and the treatments available for this condition.

Understanding Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis is caused by the bacteria *Anaplasma phagocytophilum*, which is spread through the bites of infected black-legged ticks (also known as deer ticks) or brown dog ticks. Although the condition exists throughout the United States, it is more common in the Midwest, West Coast, and Northeast.

Signs and Symptoms in Dogs

Dogs with anaplasmosis may or may not exhibit symptoms. If they do, the signs often resemble severe flu symptoms. Keep an eye on the following:

- Tiredness

- Pain

- Fever

- loss of appetite

- bleeding nose

- lameness

- joint pain

- Diarrhea

- vomit

- cough

- difficulty breathing

- tour

- Meningitis

- Ataxia (interrupted movement)

- feeling cold

People Also Read-can dogs eat hard boiled eggs

Importance of veterinary care

If your dog shows any of the above symptoms, prompt veterinary care is necessary. Without treatment, anaplasmosis can lead to serious complications such as respiratory failure, organ failure, or bleeding problems. In severe cases, it can be fatal.

Diagnosis of Anaplasmosis in Dogs

Diagnosing anaplasmosis can be challenging because its symptoms resemble those of other diseases. To help your veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis, provide information about your dog's recent activities and possible tick exposures. Symptoms usually appear 2 to 4 weeks after a tick bite.

Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination, checking for signs of anaplasmosis and any ticks on your dog. They may also perform an antibody test to confirm the presence of *Anaplasma phagocytophilum* bacteria.

Treatment options

Treatment of anaplasmosis usually includes a course of antibiotics such as doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline or chloramphenicol. Most dogs show significant improvement within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotic therapy.

Preventing Anaplasmosis

The best way to prevent anaplasmosis is to prevent it. Keep your dog on tick prevention medications year-round and avoid areas with high tick populations, such as areas with tall grass and brush. Check your dog regularly to prevent disease transmission and remove them immediately.