Home | Table of Contents Volume 4 Issue 3
(NAPS) -Spring and Summer is a wonderful time for a family to enjoy outdoors walks, camping trips and outings. Many families find that it is also a perfect time to buy a new puppy. While they are enjoying their new puppy, people may forget that spring is the beginning of the season for the ticks that carry Lyme disease. "Lyme disease is spread to humans and pets when they are bitten by infected ticks", said Dr. David Hustead, director of professional services at Fort Dodge Animal Health. The risk of contracting Lyme disease is greatest in the spring when ticks are active and the weather is mild. This means they are likely to seek humans and dogs walking through woods, parks, or yards. Pet owners need to protect themselves and their dogs against the threat of Lyme disease. "Vaccinating a puppy from the start is the easiest way to protect pets from the disease", said Hustead. "LymeVax is the easiest and most complete way to protect your dog from Lyme disease, and it can now be administered with the Puppyshot Booster + LymeVax as early as nine weeks of age." Lyme Disease: A Growing Problem According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1982 Lyme disease has increased 20-fold. The deer tick is the most common carrier tick. It is a common misconception that Lyme disease-infected ticks prowl only isolated woodland areas. Ticks like to live in tall grass, shrubs or woods. A home lawn outlined with fully-grown shrubs makes such a habitat suitable for ticks. According to research, in a Lyme disease endemic area many tick bites also happen right in the backyard because ticks may be transported on their animal hosts from wooded areas into your backyard where they can seek blood meals spring or fall. Risks of Lyme Disease Immediate medical treatment is essential in helping to treat Lyme disease infections, but too often the early warning signs go unnoticed, especially in dogs. This is because it is hard to locate the small ticks through a dog's thick coat and pet owners can misinterpret the early warning signs. In addition, research has shown that dogs may be more likely to become infected because of their active lifestyle. Lyme disease in dogs includes arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, and damage to the neurological system. The following are signs of Lyme disease in dogs. Take your dog and the tick to the veterinarian if you see these signs: Sudden onset of pain in legs or body. Arthritis or swelling in joints. Lethargy or depression. Loss of appetite.		Five Step Prevention Program Prevention is the best cure for Lyme disease. By following a simple five-step prevention program, you can help protect your entire family, including the dog. Know the Danger. Understand the tick and Lyme disease danger in the area where you will be walking, even in your own backyard. If you live in a state where infected ticks have been reported, take precautions whenever you go outdoors. Dress the Part. Dress in long sleeves, long pants, boots and socks. Spray insect repellent on clothing or spray sparingly on exposed skin, being careful to use products labeled for use on adults and children. Protect your pet. Discuss with your veterinarian the best way to remove and repel ticks. Vaccinating dogs with LymeVax can be one of the most effective ways to protect them from getting Lyme disease. It may be the most convenient way to protect your dog from Lyme disease right from the start. Plan your Path. Stick to paths wherever possible, avoiding contact with tall grass or bush. Inspect for Ticks. Inspect your family, including your pet, after your outing. Remove any ticks with tweezers. If you, your pet or a family member has been bitten by a tick, save the tick in a plastic bottle, and then watch for signs of Lyme disease. If you notice fever, joint pain or weakness, seek immediate medical attention and bring the tick with you. If your dog spends any time outside, and you live in a state with reported cases of Lyme disease, consult your veterinarian about vaccinating your pet with LymeVax. Over the past six years, studies have shown vaccination with LymeVax can be highly effective in preventing Lyme disease.