Canine Ehrlichiosis - A Serious Disease

Dogs can get the disease if they are bitten by an infected tick. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal

- Bioguard Corporation’s YungTsun Lo, D.V.M., Ph.D

Canine ehrlichiosis (pronounced ‘err-lick-eeoh-sis’) is a disease caused by a tick-borne bacteria from the Ehrlichia genus. Though this disease happens everywhere, it is more common in tropical regions. With global warming, the expansion of tick habitats and the prevalence of crossborder tourism, the chances of the disease spreading to non-endemic areas have increased.

How is a dog infected? 

Ehrlichiosis is a disease that develops in dogs after being bitten by an infected tick. Disease transmission can occur in as little as three to six hours after the tick attaches, therefore prompt tick removal is crucial. Ehrlichia canis (E. canis) is the most common rickettsial species involved in ehrlichiosis in dogs, but other strains of the organism will occasionally be found. These bacteria live inside your pet’s white blood cells.

Symptoms of ehrlichiosis