How to Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs
- 1). Evaluate your dog’s Lyme disease risk. Many dog owners enjoy spending time outdoors with their canine. This is great for ensuring your dog gets exercise, however it does put him at higher risk for Lyme disease.
- 2). Research the rate of Lyme disease occurrences in your geographic area. Some areas are more at risk for Lyme disease infection. Visit the CDC’s website to learn about your area.
- 3). Get your dog vaccinated against Lyme disease. If your dog doesn’t engage in activities considered high risk and you live in a low risk area, you may be able to forgo the vaccine. But be sure to ask your vet for a recommendation.
- 4). Give your dog regular exams after outdoor activities. After you take your dog for a hike or outdoor adventure, give him a head to paw exam. Look for ticks or any suspicious marks. Ask another person to help while you conduct the examine.
- 5). If you think your dog has been infected with Lyme disease, seek medical attention immediately. If it’s after hours, visit an emergency animal hospital and explain your situation.