Introduction

Ticks can spread Tick Borne Diseases to both pets and people. These are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that ticks transfer to humans or animals when they feed on them. These diseases are not just a bothersome factor, they are so severe. If the diseases are left untreated, the situation may get out of hand. Therefore, learning and realizing this fact as soon as possible about the mode of transmission of these diseases may be of a lot of help to your pet’s health.

Top 10 Tick Borne Diseases with Their Symptoms

1. Anaplasmosis-

This disease, which is tick-borne and transmissible through the black-legged ticks, results in symptoms such as-

• Fever
• Energy loss
• Joint pain
• Time to time vomiting
• Diarrhea

The condition may also be presented as low platelet counts that eventually cause bleeding problems.

2. Babesiosis-

The parasites of Babesia are the ones that destroy red blood cells, thus, causing anemia.

Signs of this disease are of such a clear nature as-

• Pale mucous membranes
• Icterus
• Dark-colored urine
• Fever
• Lethargy

It is evident that the serious forms of the disease are those that can bring about mere weakness and a significant decrease in weight.

3. Bourbon Virus-

It is a different kind and bourbon virus is very deadly.

The symptoms of this disease are-

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Body aches
• Diarrhea

 The most severe cases are the ones requiring professional medical care.

4. Colorado Tick Fever-

It a viral disease, is the reason for fever, chills, headache, body aches, and sometimes a rash. It’s most common in the western U.S.

5. Ehrlichiosis-

The infection of Ehrlichiosis, generally occurs from the bite of a brown dog tick.

The symptoms of this disease are-

• High temperature
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Neurological disorders
• Bleeding problems as well.

6. Lyme Disease–

Carried by various Borrelia bacteria, this infection results in recurrent problems.

The symptoms of this disease are-

• Fevers
• Headaches
• Muscle
• Joint aches
• Rash

7. Crimean-Congo Fever- CCHF-

It is another of the rare but very dangerous viruses carried by ticks in the USA.

The symptoms include-

• Fever
• Tiredness
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Loss of white blood cell counts in the body.
• In extreme instances, it can lead to hospitalization.

8. Lyme Disease-

It is possible that Lyme disease is the most common disease of all.

The symptoms include-

• Swollen joints
• Fever
• Lack of appetite
• Lethargy.
• In some cases, it may harm the kidneys.

9. Fast-Growing Spotted Fever-

It causes a high fever, lack of appetite, painful lymph nodes, joint inflammation, vomiting, diarrhea, and a characteristic rash. Severe cases can progress to neurological symptoms and bleeding.

10. STARI–

Through carrying the bacteria and having symptoms of such, STARI can cause the person affected to be frightened.

The symptoms usually include-

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Skin rash

How Tick-Borne Diseases Are Spread

Ticks do not jump or fly. As your dog goes through, the tick will attach itself and search for a biting spot, usually around the ears, neck, or under the legs. As soon as it attaches itself to you, the tick will insert its feeding tube and begin sucking blood immediately.

The longer a tick feeds on the host, the higher the chances of disease transmission. For example, the Lyme disease bacteria mostly need 24-48 hours of attachment to spread. While some like those causing ehrlichiosis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever can transmit within a few hours. That’s why regular tick checks and relatively early removal are important.

A solitary tick bite can pass more than a single illness. It is possible that dogs don’t have symptoms at first, for some signs might show up weeks, and even months post exposure.

Conclusion

For health-conscious pet parents, preventing your pets and your family from Tick Borne Diseases is a priority. A little prevention goes a long way in the battle against Tick Borne Diseases, so you and your pup can continue to enjoy the great outdoors without a care in the world.