Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Dogs

Have you ever heard of Rocky Mountain spotted fever? It’s a tick-borne disease that can affect our canine companions. While most prevalent in the Southern and Midwestern parts of the United States, it’s been diagnosed in dogs throughout the country. It’s up to you to keep your pet safe! Learn more about this disease in this article from a veterinarian Wichita, KS.

What causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever? 

The dog tick transmits a rod-shaped microorganism known as Rickettsia rickettsii. It’s this microorganism that causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Veterinarians like your Wichita, KS vet see the highest number of Rocky Mountain spotted fever cases during peak tick season. That’s generally summer, spring, and early autumn. 

German shepherds and other purebred breeds seem to be, for unknown reasons, more likely to react severely to the Rickettsia rickettsii organism. Consult your vets Wichita, KS for more insights.

What are the symptoms? 

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is categorized into two stages: subclinical and acute. Dogs with the subclinical form won’t show any symptoms, and will recover quickly without any ill effects. Dogs suffering from the acute form, however, will show symptoms like depression, lethargy, fever, joint pain, and accumulation of fluid in the limbs. Tell your vet clinic Wichita, KS right away if you notice these symptoms. 

Signs like diarrhea and vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, and bloody stool or urine are also possible in dogs with the acute disease. In some dogs, blood clots and pneumonia can occur, possibly even leading to sudden death. Your animal hospital Wichita, KS can tell you more, so call today.

Note that a tick must be attached to its host (your dog) for several hours before the Rickettsia rickettsii organism is transmitted. If you pull a tick off of your dog fast enough, they’ll avoid the problem entirely. Ask your pet clinic Wichita, KS for more insight into this.

How is it diagnosed and treated? 

A blood test to check for antibodies to Rickettsia rickettsii will diagnose a case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Treatment involves an antibiotic regimen, and fluid therapy and other supportive measures might be needed. The professionals at your veterinary clinic Wichita, KS can give you more details. 

Dogs who react severely to the disease might need shock treatment, blood transfusions, and an extended hospital stay at your vet Wichita, KS. But this isn’t particularly common. The vast majority of dogs recover within a few days and make full recoveries. 

How can I prevent tick bites? 

Preventing tick bites in the first place is, of course, the easiest way to avoid Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It also allows your dog to avoid other tick-borne diseases, like Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. Do so by keeping your dog on a high-quality tick preventative prescribed by your animal clinic Wichita, KS. Keep your yard neat and tidy so that you avoid attracting ticks. And always check over your dog’s body for ticks after you’ve returned from outdoors. 

For more information about Rocky Mountain spotted fever and how to keep your dog safe, call your vet hospital Wichita, KS. We’re here to help with all of your most important dog care needs!