Tick Fever in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Tick fever is one of the most common serious illnesses in Indian dogs, and one of the most commonly caught too late. It is not a single disease — Ehrlichia,…
Tick fever is one of the most common serious illnesses in Indian dogs, and one of the most commonly caught too late. It is not a single disease — Ehrlichia, Babesia and Anaplasma are different organisms with overlapping signs.
What to watch for
High fever, sudden lethargy, loss of appetite, pale gums, nosebleeds, or pinpoint red spots on the belly or gums. A dog that is simply 'dull' for two days deserves a blood test, not a wait-and-see.
Diagnosis
A complete blood count showing a low platelet count is the usual first clue; a specific tick fever panel or PCR confirms which organism is involved. Treatment differs by organism, which is why the test matters.
Treatment
Usually doxycycline for several weeks for Ehrlichia, with different drugs for Babesia. Severe cases may need a transfusion. Do not stop the course early because the dog looks better — relapse is common and harder to treat.
Prevention is a house problem, not a dog problem
Ticks spend most of their life off the animal, in cracks, bedding and walls. Treating only the dog fails. Combine a vet-prescribed preventive with washing bedding in hot water and treating the environment, and repeat on a cycle.