Is Ehrlichia canis in Australia?
Ehrlichiosis is a disease that effects dogs and is caused by a tick-borne bacteria called Ehrlichia canis. The brown dog tick which is present across northern Australia is the main carrier of this disease, and transmission only occurs through infected ticks.
Is Ehrlichia in dogs fatal?
The disease is characterised by fever, decreased appetite, lethargy and bleeding (such as nose bleeds). Some dogs develop severe and rapid weight loss, swollen limbs, difficulty in breathing and blindness. One of the most serious effects of this disease is on the bone marrow, which can be fatal.
Should you adopt a dog with Ehrlichia?
Prognosis for canines with acute ehrlichiosis is very good if the treatment plan is followed. Dogs with subclinical ehrlichiosis may remain in this phase with no symptoms for their life time. In the case of chronic ehrlichiosis, it may take longer for your pet to fully recover.
Where is Ehrlichia canis found?
canis is considered endemic in the southeastern and southwestern states, though the brown dog tick is found throughout the United States and Canada. “Ehrlichiosis is a disease that develops in dogs after being bitten by an infected tick.” The brown dog tick is the main carrier of the Ehrlichia organism in nature.
Where are brown dog ticks found in Australia?
In Australia, the brown dog tick is present in all states and territories. It is most common north of latitude 30 degrees south, although it is occasionally found as far as south as Sydney and Melbourne. However, ticks infected with Ehrlichia canis have not been detected in these areas.
Can Ehrlichia cause kidney failure?
Dogs exposed to Ehrlichia were found to have a 300% increased risk of Chronic Kidney Disease, which is why we strongly recommend monitoring kidney values every 6 months. When evaluating kidney function, it’s important to also evaluate urine.
Is Ehrlichia in dogs treatable?
If your pup has severe bleeding problems or anemia due to ehrlichiosis, they may need a blood transfusion along with being treated for the disease. Treating ehrlichiosis in dogs typically involves a 4 week round of antibiotics such as doxycycline.
Can dogs survive chronic Ehrlichia?
If ehrlichiosis is caught in its early stages, effective treatment can mean a very good prognosis for your dog. If symptoms were detected once the disease reached its acute or mild chronic phase, they should typically improve within 24 to 48 hours.