Diagnosis of Canine Lyme disease

Canine Lyme disease is acquired from a tick carrying the bacteria, borrelia burgdorferi which causes the disease.  Dogs of any age or breed can be infected with Lyme disease.  Infected ticks that remain on the dog’s body for more than two days are capable of passing the disease on to the dog.

Clinical signs are manifested in the form of lethargy, inflammation of the joints, difficulty walking, fever, inappetance, general discomfort, and urinary issues.   Pet owners observing symptoms of this type in their dog should seek immediate veterinary care.  Diagnostic measures begin with a physical examination and exchange of medical information concerning the dogs past and present medical history and a discussion of the dog's exposure to ticks.

Following the examination, a blood workup may be conducted to verify the presence of borrelia burdorferi in the blood.  This is the most conclusive test in determining a diagnosis of Lyme disease.  In addition to this test, the veterinarian may conduct a complete blood profile to rule out other conditions.  A urinalysis may also be part of the diagnostic process.