Attn pet parents! If your dog has pale gums, lethargy, it can be tick fever

Hyderabad: Tick fever among dogs is a growing concern across India, with a noticeable increase in infections caused by Babesia and Ehrlichia pathogens.

Although these infections have long existed, recent advancements in diagnostics have made it easier to identify and treat them, especially in urban settings where pets are more commonly kept in close quarters.

Tick Fever Types and Causes

Tick fever in dogs occurs due to tick bites, which can transmit several pathogens, including protozoa and bacteria.

Speaking to Newsmeter, Dr. Anjali Gupta, a Hyderabad-based veterinarian, explains: “Ticks are more than just pests—they’re carriers of serious illnesses. They pick up pathogens like Babesia and Ehrlichia from infected animals and pass them on to healthy dogs.”

She notes that Indian climates, especially in tropical regions, create ideal conditions for tick proliferation, putting all dogs, regardless of breed, age, or gender, at risk.

Babesiosis and ehrlichiosis are two of the most common tick-borne illnesses affecting dogs in India. Both are known to cause severe symptoms, ranging from anemia to systemic organ failure if not addressed promptly.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Babesiosis

Babesiosis, caused by the Babesia parasite, attacks the red blood cells of infected dogs, often leading to anemia. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, pale gums, and swollen lymph nodes.

“It’s scary to see your pet looking so exhausted and weak,” says Ravi Shekhar, a pet parent from Hyderabad. “My dog, Leo, was diagnosed with Babesia after we noticed dark-colored urine and loss of appetite.”

Dr. Gupta points out that while symptoms provide some clues, a diagnosis requires specific tests. “We typically run a complete blood count, biochemical tests, and a real-time PCR to confirm the infection type,” she explains. This is essential, as the severity of the symptoms often depends on the dog’s age, immune strength, and other health conditions.

Ehrlichia: A Common Infection with Serious Risks

Ehrlichiosis is another prevalent tick-borne disease in India, primarily spread by the brown dog tick. This bacterial infection can progress in stages, initially causing fever and weight loss and, in advanced cases, leading to severe bleeding disorders and neurological problems.

Dr. Sameer Patel, a veterinarian specializing in infectious diseases, emphasizes the need for quick action: “Ehrlichiosis can be managed effectively if diagnosed early. However, if it reaches the chronic stage, it can lead to irreversible complications like multiple organ failure.” He adds that common indicators include prolonged bleeding from minor wounds and limb swelling.

For this reason, veterinarians often recommend ELISA or qPCR tests to identify Ehrlichia infection accurately.

Treatment and Challenges in Managing Tick Fever

Treatment for tick fever varies based on the infection type and its severity. In cases of babesiosis, dogs may need supportive care such as IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication for liver and kidney support. Ehrlichiosis, on the other hand, is commonly treated with antibiotics, but advanced cases may also require blood transfusions.

“Managing Babesia was challenging for us,” shares Priya Kumar, a pet owner whose Labrador recently underwent treatment for babesiosis. “Apart from the cost, it’s the constant monitoring that takes a toll. Our vet advised monthly blood tests to keep tabs on his recovery.”

Veterinarians caution pet owners that even after treatment, dogs infected with Babesia may remain carriers of the parasite. “Relapses are not uncommon, and there is always a risk of reinfection if tick prevention measures aren’t consistently followed,” says Dr. Patel.

Preventive Measures Key to Avoiding Tick Fever

Prevention remains the best approach to managing tick fever. Using tick control products, regularly cleaning the dog’s environment, and frequent vet check-ups are essential. Many veterinarians advise pet parents to use tick collars and sprays, check under furniture for ticks, and regularly groom their pets.

Dr. Anjali Gupta emphasizes the importance of prevention: “Tick fever is a recurrent problem in India, especially because of the climate. Once a dog contracts it, they’re more vulnerable to infections in the future. Preventive measures are crucial.”

Although vaccines for Babesiosis are available outside India, they are ineffective against the specific strains found in India. “Education about tick-borne diseases and preventive methods is key,” adds Dr. Patel.

Tick fever awareness has increased among pet owners, with more seeking timely diagnoses and preventive care. For now, the best defense remains vigilant tick management and regular veterinary check-ups, giving pet parents peace of mind as they protect their furry companions.