Anaplasmosis in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment

Tick-borne diseases pose a serious health risk for people, pets, and farm animals across the US. Anaplasmosis, spread by the black-legged deer tick, is one such disease. Today, our veterinarian in Madison shares the symptoms of anaplasmosis in dogs and how this potentially serious condition is treated.

What is anaplasmosis in dogs?

Anaplasmosis is caused by a bacteria called Anaplasma phagocytophilum. It is spread by the bite of an infected black-legged tick, deer tick (which is also responsible for the spread of Lyme disease), or brown dog tick. This potentially serious condition can be found across the US, but higher disease rates are reported in the Midwest, West Coast, and Northeast areas of the United States.

What are the symptoms of anaplasmosis?

Although some dogs with anaplasmosis show no symptoms, the most common signs are similar to severe flu symptoms. If your dog has anaplasmosis, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

Can anaplasmosis be cured?

Yes, but only if you take your dog to the vet. If your dog shows any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to take them to the vet for an examination. Left untreated, anaplasmosis can result in serious health complications for your dog, including respiratory failure, organ failure, and bleeding problems. In very severe cases, anaplasmosis in dogs can be fatal.

How is anaplasmosis diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosing anaplasmosis can be tricky, since its symptoms are vague and could be associated with various other diseases. Knowing where your dog has been and whether it may have come in contact with infected ticks can help your veterinarian with diagnosis.

Provide your veterinarian with as much information as possible regarding where your dog may have been in contact with the ticks, the symptoms your dog is displaying, and when the symptoms began. The first symptoms of anaplasmosis typically appear in dogs between two to four weeks after being bitten by an infected tick.

If your veterinarian believes your dog could be infected with anaplasmosis, they will perform a full physical exam to look for signs of the disease and any ticks on your pet. Your veterinarian may also run an antibody test to determine if your dog tests positive for the Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria. 

How do you treat anaplasmosis in dogs?

Anaplasmosis in dogs is typically treated with antibiotics. These medications are usually administered for a period of 2-4 weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions closely and ensure that the full course of antibiotics is completed to effectively eliminate the bacteria causing anaplasmosis.

In addition to antibiotics, supportive care may also be necessary to help manage symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and lethargy. This can include pain medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and fluids to prevent dehydration. Regular monitoring by a veterinarian is crucial to track progress and ensure that the dog is responding well to treatment.

Can I prevent my dog from developing anaplasmosis?

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease, so one of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from developing it is by implementing a comprehensive tick prevention program. This can include using monthly topical or oral tick preventatives, as well as regularly checking your dog for ticks after they have been outside in areas where ticks are prevalent. Keeping your yard well-maintained by mowing the grass and removing any tall brush or leaf litter can also help reduce the risk of exposure to ticks.

Another important aspect of preventing anaplasmosis in dogs is to avoid areas where ticks are known to be abundant, such as wooded areas, tall grasses, and marshy areas. If you do take your dog to these types of environments, consider using a tick repellent spray specifically designed for dogs, and make sure to thoroughly check them for ticks after returning home. Additionally, keeping your dog's fur well-groomed can make it easier to spot and remove any ticks that may have attached themselves.

Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential for preventing anaplasmosis in dogs, as veterinarians can provide guidance on tick prevention methods and recommend appropriate products if available. It's also important to stay informed about the prevalence of tick-borne diseases in your area and take necessary precautions accordingly. By being proactive about tick prevention and staying vigilant about checking for ticks, you can greatly reduce the risk of your dog developing anaplasmosis.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Is your dog displaying symptoms of anaplasmosis or any other illness? Schedule an appointment with our veterinarians in Madison today.