Canine Ehrlichiosis is bacterial disease which occurs worldwide, especially in tropical countries. The disease is transmitted via the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). There have been few reports of transmission through blood transfusion. Several species of Ehrlichia are known to infect dogs including Ehrlichia ewigii, Ehrlichia equi and Ehrlichia platys. However, Ehrlichia canis causes the most common and severe form of disease in dogs.
TRANSMISSION
An infected brown dog tick transmits the adult stage or nymphs of Ehrlichia to a new host during feeding (blood meal). The bacterium invades and multiplies in the hosts’ monocytes, lymphocytes and reticuloendothelial cells (immune response cells). The infection could be acute, beginning after an incubation period of averagely two weeks. The disease becomes chronic after the organism persists, for more than three months.
CLINICAL SIGNS
Signs of disease include fever, weight loss, anemia, abdominal pain, shifting lameness and seizures.
DIAGNOSIS, PREVENTION & CONTROL
Laboratory blood tests are usually used to confirm Ehrlichiosis. Your pet will most likely be placed on a long-term therapy, usually of about four weeks.
It is important to seek medical care as soon as you notice your pet exhibiting similar signs as mentioned above. The most effective way to prevent this disease is the effective control of ticks. Discuss with your Vet the available tick control options, and the one that is best suited for your pet.