We get it. When it comes to COVID, the topic of vaccines has become fairly boring for everyone. But bear with us, because this discussion is important too. Our small dog Scout’s experience with severe pain and brief lameness following her Lyme disease vaccination for dogs is the subject of this narrative.
And we’re not the only ones who have to care for their Havanese after a bad vaccine reaction. Similar reactions to the Lyme vaccine have been reported in such a large number of small dogs. And last year, we discovered too late that adverse vaccine reactions are more common in small dogs. Despite the fact that we live in a region where disease-carrying ticks are prevalent, we are very disappointed in ourselves for having gone through with Lyme vaccinations when we had previously resisted doing so for years.
Don’t make the mistake we did. We assumed that this historically controversial vaccine was now widely accepted and that administering it was morally appropriate.
Let’s briefly discuss the illness before delving into how the Lyme vaccine for small dogs may have side effects.
We won’t take long with this. In all likelihood, you know what Lyme disease is. But as a refresher, remember that it’s caused by B. burgdorferi, a bacteria carried by ticks. Ticks transmit bacteria to humans and dogs who are unfortunate enough to be bitten after feeding on an infected animal (typically a deer or mouse).
Most canines with Lyme disease bites do not display any symptoms, as we will explain further down. But if they do get sick, they’ll probably act exhausted and act like their joints hurt. They might have a limp or arched backs from pain.
If you are reading this article about the Lyme vaccine for dogs, you probably reside in or frequently travel to an area that is considered to be “endemic” (an area where something frequently occurs). Lyme disease used to be confined to a few isolated areas of the United States, but it’s now becoming more widespread. Check the CDC’s Lyme Maps if you want to know how close you are to an endemic area.
(Though they should be updated frequently, the 2019 Map is the most recent one currently available.) We updated this article in Spring of 2022).
If you only considered the “low incidence” states, you might believe that Lyme disease only affects parts of the upper midwest and the Northeast. However, don’t be misled by those maps. In reality, however, climate change is fueling the spread. The recovery of white-tailed deer populations and “milder winters, earlier springs, and longer, warmer summers”… mean “blacklegged ticks are succeeding in new geographic areas,” according to the CDC’s Division of Vector-Born Disease. ”.
What Does the Lyme Vaccine Do?
The Lyme vaccine aids in the prevention of Lyme disease in dogs, a bacterial infection spread by blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks or Ixodes ticks, which are commonly found in tall grasses and wooded areas in many parts of the country.
“I advise owners that the Lyme vaccine is a “belt plus suspenders” for dogs who have experienced a lot of exposure to deer ticks. The Lyme vaccine is the “suspenders,” and the “belt” is a precise product that eliminates deer ticks, according to Dr A veterinarian in Fanwood, New Jersey named Betsy Brevitz, DVM, is the creator of “The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook.” ”.
Does my dog need a Lyme disease vaccine?
Unfortunately, the answer isnât straight forward. According to the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the core group of vaccines required for all dogs does not include the Lyme disease vaccine. Dogs living in areas with a high potential for tick exposure as well as those who frequently visit or reside in Lyme disease-affected areas are especially advised to get vaccinated against the disease.
It is not advised to vaccinate against Lyme disease in canines that are ill or who have problems with urinary protein. Researchers and veterinarians disagree over the value of immunizing dogs with Lyme disease. Some believe it will help keep the dog from getting sick again, while others are concerned that the vaccine may have a negative reaction and make the dog worse.
The Lyme Vaccination for Dogs Isn’t Foolproof
The shot isn’t 100 percent effective, says Dr. Mengel.
But, Dr. According to anecdotal evidence, Mengel continues, “many practices report seeing a decrease in the number of dogs testing positive for exposure to the Lyme bacteria since using the vaccine in practice for several years. ”.
Since the Lyme vaccine is only partially effective in preventing Lyme disease and offers no protection against the numerous other tick-borne illnesses, such as ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Dr. Brevitz.
FAQ
Is Lyme vaccine for dogs necessary?
Dogs living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure and those who frequently visit or live in areas where Lyme disease is known to occur are the main populations for which the Lyme disease vaccine is advised. It is not advised to vaccinate against Lyme disease in canines that are ill or who have problems with urinary protein.
Does the Lyme vaccine prevent Lyme disease in dogs?
What Does the Lyme Vaccine Do? The Lyme vaccine aids in the prevention of Lyme disease in canines, a bacterial infection spread by blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks or Ixodes ticks, which are commonly found in tall grasses and wooded areas in many parts of the country.
Can dog get Lyme disease if vaccinated?
Can an animal get infected despite being vaccinated? Yes. It has been noted that some animals can still contract Lyme disease after receiving a vaccination. This might be as a result of the animal’s poor immune system, a high exposure rate, or a high prevalence of Lyme disease in the area where the animal resides.
How long does a Lyme vaccine last in dogs?
After the initial two-dose series, the dog should receive a single dose, followed by a dose every year after that if the risk of exposure persists.