people in the household.
Do All Ticks Carry Diseases?
No.
Not every tick is infected with a disease-causing organism.
The risk depends on several factors, including:
- The species of tick
- Where the tick is found
- Whether the tick is carrying an infectious organism
- How long the tick remains attached
- How common tick-borne diseases are in the area
Even when ticks are common, a tick bite does not automatically mean that a person or dog will become sick.
Diseases Ticks Can Transmit to Dogs
Ticks can transmit several illnesses to dogs.
Ehrlichiosis
Ehrlichiosis is caused by bacteria belonging to the Ehrlichia genus.
Possible symptoms include:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Bleeding or bruising problems
Anaplasmosis
Anaplasmosis can cause symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Joint pain
- Limping
- Loss of appetite
- General weakness
Babesiosis
Babesiosis is caused by parasites that infect red blood cells.
Possible symptoms include:
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Fever
- Dark-colored
