Biliary, commonly known as tick bite fever, is a grave tick-borne disease that poses a serious threat to dogs. Caused by the microscopic blood parasite Babesia canis or B. rossi, this illness affects the red blood cells of our furry companions. Pet Owners should be aware of the reasons why biliary is dangerous for dogs and the preventive measures that can be taken to ensure their well-being.
The Lifecycle of Biliary:
The yellow dog tick and the kennel tick are the culprits responsible for transmitting the Babesia parasite. Once a tick bites a dog, it needs to remain attached for at least 24 hours to activate and transmit the parasite into the bloodstream through its saliva. The incubation period for biliary is 10 to 14 days, during which the infected dog may not show any symptoms.
Symptoms of Biliary:
Identifying the symptoms of biliary is crucial for early intervention. Common signs include
- anemia (pale or white gums)
- anorexia (refusing to eat)
- lethargy
- fever
- jaundice (yellow gums)
- hemoglobinuria (dark or red-colored urine)
- nervousness.
If any of these symptoms are observed, prompt veterinary attention is essential.
The Severity of Tick bite Fever:
Biliary is a potentially fatal disease, particularly when left untreated. Fortunately, diagnosis is relatively straightforward; a small blood sample taken from a prick to the dog’s ear can reveal the presence of parasites under a microscope. Timely and correct treatment is vital, as severe complications can arise if neglected. In many cases, affected dogs require hospitalization and, in severe anemia cases, even a blood transfusion.
Preventing Biliary:
Prevention is key in safeguarding your canine companion from tick bite fever. Effective preventive medication such as Simparica, Nexgard and Bravecto, are administered as chewable tablets. These products poison ticks that bite the dog, preventing the transmission of the Babesia parasite. Effipro Duo, an application onto the dog’s skin, is another effective option.
Dips, available from vets and pet shops, are also useful in repelling and killing ticks. Combining dips with chewable tablets or spot-on treatments offers comprehensive protection. For puppies and small dogs under three months, Frontline spray is a safe and effective choice.
It is crucial never to use tick and flea products intended for dogs on cats, as these can be lethal to feline companions.
Early detection and prompt veterinary care are essential for the successful treatment of biliary.
Biliary poses a serious threat to dogs, but with proper preventive measures, it can be effectively managed. From chewable tablets to spot-on treatments, dips and sprays, there are various options available to protect your furry friend from the dangers of tick bite fever. Remember, prevention is the best approach, and maintaining year-round tick control is highly recommended, especially in regions like South Africa where ticks are prevalent. Your dog’s health and well-being are in your hands, so take the necessary steps to keep them happy and tick-free.