In 2018, approximately 165,000 cases of ehrlichiosis, 182,000 cases of anaplasmosis, and more than 318,000 cases of Lyme disease were confirmed from over 5.6 million dogs that were tested. In addition there were 143,000 cases of canine heartworm confirmed from 10.8 million dogs tested.
So far this year (January - March 2019) there have been almost 44,000 cases of ehrlichiosis, 46,000 cases of anaplasmosis, and more than 79,000 cases of Lyme disease confirmed from more than 1.5 million dogs tested. There has been nearly 40,000 cases of canine heartworm confirmed in almost 3 million dogs tested according to Companion Animal Parasite Council.
These dangerous diseases are primarily transmitted to your pet through the bite of blood-feeding arthropods; anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease are transmitted by ticks, while heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Effectively preventing and controlling ticks and mosquitoes in residential yards and gardens most often requires both planning and vigilant efforts. This usually includes the use of pesticides, but always requires mechanical control methods such as keeping grass and shrubs trimmed, removal of organic debris (e.g., fallen leaves and brush piles), and eliminating breeding sites (e.g., standing water in flower pots and other containers).
If your pet contracts one of these diseases, you will notice:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Poor appetite
- Lymph node enlargement
- Abnormal bruising and bleeding
- Chronic eye inflammation
- Lameness (can be shifting, intermittent, and recurring)
- Generalized stiffness, discomfort, or pain
- Swelling of joints
- Mild Persistent Cough
- Swollen Belly
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, contact your local veterinary office immediately. Contact Patio Patrol for professional mosquito & tick control.
Article: Dr. Steve Presley, Professor and the Chairman of the Department of Environmental Toxicology & Director of the Biological Threat Research Laboratory at The Institute of Environmental and Human Health
