Preventing Lyme disease in dogs is important for your dog’s long-term health.

As with any parasite, helping your dog to avoid coming into contact with a tick that may or may not be carrying Lyme disease is the best way to prevent the disease in the first place, however, sometimes simply avoiding possible exposure is not enough. There are a few steps that people can take that can help their dog avoid exposure to Lyme disease and the terrible consequences that the disease can cause.

Vaccinations to Prevent Lyme Disease - As for many common parasite driven diseases, there are vaccines available for dogs that can help prevent the dog from contracting Lyme disease and suffering from the diseases devastating effects. The vaccine is a two-series shot that your veterinarian can provide for your dog. It is important to note that not all vets offer this vaccine to dog owners, mostly because Lyme disease is not as common in all areas of the world.

Use Vectra, Nexgard or Preventic collars - Using a monthly flea and tick medication on your dog is a great way to prevent flea and tick infestation on your dog. It is important that the monthly flea and tick medication be applied every 30 days to ensure the best and most effective coverage for your dog. You may also want to consider a flea and tick collar for added protection if you live in an area that is known for having ticks.

Brush Your Dog Regularly - Regularly brushing your dog can help prevent ticks from being attracted to your dog. Ticks like warm fur and by keeping your dog free of excess fur you can help your dog be a less attractive hose to any possible ticks.

Carefully Check Your Dog for Ticks - After exercising your dog, it is important to check for any ticks that may have attached themselves to your dog while you were out. It is important to check the neck area, ears and armpits. Ticks need to get to the skin so areas where the fur is thinner are all areas where ticks may attach themselves.

Remove Ticks Immediately - While it may take ticks a week or so to become engorged with your dog’s blood, it only takes one or two days for the bacteria to be transmitted to you dog.

Lyme disease can be devastating to your dog, so preventing the infection in the first place is key. Learning about the types of ticks in your area and where they are commonly found will help you and your dog avoid exposure to Lyme disease.