No Time for Lyme (Disease)

Lyme disease, or borreliosis, is the most common tick-borne illness in North America. Contracted by humans, lyme disease is well documented and relatively easy to treat.
For dogs, however, the situation is a little more complicated. Dogs are at greater risk as they may carry ticks that aren’t as easily detected – a dog’s fur can allow ticks to remain hidden. A dog which has contracted lyme disease may exhibit symptoms ranging from soreness to depression and loss of appetite. High fevers are also common. If left untreated, lyme disease in dogs can be fatal.
Stopping ticks from entering your property is the goal, because although a dog carrying the disease cannot directly pass it to a human host, your pet could potentially bring ticks that can into your home.
The best way to keep ticks out is to install a fence that will work to keep animal carriers, such as deer and rodents, out. By keeping wildlife carriers off of your property, you can also reduce the damage done to your garden or plants. A physical barrier will also allow your pet to run free in an area you specify.
Specialized tick and “electric” collars may keep your dog in the yard. The problem, however, comes from the animal trespassers that carry ticks into the area. A sturdy fence is clearly the best way to stop the problem before it starts.
Healthy pets and untouched plants are worth the effort. -Max Barth