[vatrader01]

Hi, just joined here, seeking some input on a situation I have. My 16 year old Jack Russell tested positive for Lyme Disease last week. The Vet has put him on a 30 day treatment of Doxycycline, 100mg per day. I trust the Vet's treatment program. I have no experience with Lyme Disease, and have no idea what to expect or look for as far as complications or symptoms requiring Vet attention. I am this dog's only care provider, and need some insight to help him. Anything you could offer will be appreciated.

[cigwyllt]

I've had no experience of this - my dogs are walked mostly on streets or on the beach so it's never really been an issue for us. I've just done a google search though. The answers seem to be quite mixed - some say that the dog will respond well to treatment others say that the treatment has not worked at all. I do hope your dog will be ok. I have such a passion for Jack Russells - it doesn't seem fair that an old boy like yours should have to go through something like this.

I do hope he makes a full recovery.

[Todd]

Here is some general info about lyme disease from the net...

"Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is passed to dogs through a bite from the deer tick. The tick must remain attached to the dog’s skin for one to two days before the bacteria can be transmitted.

Lyme disease can be a multi-systemic illness, with signs that may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, lameness, loss of appetite, heart disease, inflamed joints, and kidney disease. Disorders of the nervous system, while uncommon, may occur as well.

Transmission or Cause

Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, which is passed to dogs and people by deer ticks carrying the infection; the ticks get the infection from the white-footed mouse, which acts as a carrier. The only way a tick can transmit the bacteria is to remain attached to the animal’s skin for one to two days. Unfortunately, these ticks are very small and easily can go unnoticed.

Treatment

Treatment involves the use of an appropriate antibiotic, such as doxycycline, for at least three to four weeks.

Prognosis

Dogs should begin to show signs of recovery two to three days after beginning treatment. However, the disease may recur within a few weeks or months; in these cases, the dog will need to return to antibiotic therapy for extended periods."

After doing some research I have found that the antibiotics may help but when they are stopped sometimes the disease comes back. They say there are cases of dogs who have to take these antibiotics for the rest of their lives to prevent flare ups which could harm the immune system. The best advice I could give you is to give the antibiotic as directed by your vet comlemented with natural treatment of the immune system as well as the disease. here's more online info...

"Early or mild cases of Lyme disease can be treated and sometimes cured with homeopathic remedies.

In advanced cases involving elevated kidney function, doxycycline is most effective to palliate the symptoms but it is not a cure. Many cases relapse after antibiotics are done so must be given over and over long term and sometimes for life for flare ups.

Following up chronic Lyme cases with homeopathy can strengthen the immune system in some cases if the animal is strong enough to fight the disease. Deflea can kill ticks in 2-3 minutes with direct contact, whereas topical insecticides absorbed subcutaneously will kill the tick when it bites but will not prevent Lyme disease. The Lyme vaccine is only about 30% effective and has negative side effects causing Lyme symptoms such as joint pain, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. Cornell and University of PA veterinary schools have researched Lyme disease and do not recommend the vaccine for these reasons. The majority of strong, healthy animals bitten by Lyme ticks develop natural immunity which is the strongest way to become resistant to Lyme disease.

Lyme disease can cause chronic arthritis or kidney failure called Lyme nephritis in weaker or older patients. The best prevention against Lyme disease is to avoid tick infested areas.

Lyme Disease in Pets and How to Treat It

Cat and Dog Lyme Disease Treatment

Otherwise the complimentary treatment with antibiotics is very important.

For Immune System (compiled from web):

Natural Remedies to Help Boost the Immune System of Cats and Dogs

A product called K9 Immunity I believe is good too.

For the heart (compiled from web)...

Dog Heart Problems | Natural Remedies for Heart Problems in Dogs

Fish oil is a must.

For the Liver...

Dog Liver Health - Natural Remedies

Kidney...

Canine Kidney Failure - Natural Remedies

Possible Arthritis...

http://www.greenlivingtips.com/blogs...treatment.html

Def Glucosamine.Chondroitin and fish oils.

Hopefully everything turns out ok. Keep us update please.