Anaplasma Dogs: Symptoms

1. Definition of Anaplasma

Anaplasma is a genus of bacteria that cause a variety of diseases in dogs, such as anaplasmosis. These bacteria live in the blood cells of infected animals, and can spread from one dog to another. When the bacteria invade the blood cells, they cause swollen and painful joints, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and anemia. Left untreated, anaplasmosis can cause severe organ damage and even death in some cases. If caught early, however, infection can be treated with antibiotics. To avoid putting your dog at risk, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaplasmosis, and get your pet diagnosed and treated quickly.

2. Causes of Infection

Anaplasma infection in dogs is caused by bacteria that are transmitted through the bite of a tick. In addition to ticks, other sources of infection can include contact with other pets, particularly those that have been outdoors in areas where ticks are found. Infection can also occur if the dog is exposed to an environment contaminated with wild animals or their feces. Fortunately, the bacteria responsible for anaplasma infection in dogs are not contagious from one dog to another, so there is no need to worry about transmission from pet to pet. The best way to prevent infection is to keep your pet away from areas where ticks are present and to have your pet regularly checked for ticks. Additionally, it is important to use tick preventatives such as flea and tick collars, topical treatments, and oral medications to protect your pet from ticks.

3. Clinical Signs

Clinical signs in dogs infected with Anaplasma are often mild and may go undetected in some animals. The most common symptom is a fever, which may be accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite and depression. Other clinical signs may include joint pain and swelling, eye inflammation, generalized weakness, and anemia. In more severe cases, respiratory signs such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and nasal discharge may occur. In addition, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea and vomiting may be observed. A veterinarian can examine the animal and perform diagnostic tests such as blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds to diagnose Anaplasma in a dog and determine the course of treatment.

4. Diagnosis

Diagnosing anaplasmosis in dogs can be a challenge for vets since the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. The most accurate way to diagnose is to take a blood sample from the dog and submit it for testing at a laboratory. The laboratory will check for antibodies that indicate the presence of the Anaplasma bacteria. In some cases, X-rays and ultrasounds may be used to rule out other diseases and to look for physical signs of infection. Diagnosis can also be made using a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, which is used to detect the DNA of Anaplasma bacteria in the sample. This is one of the most accurate ways to diagnose anaplasmosis, as it can detect even very small amounts of the bacteria.

5. Treatment

Treating Anaplasma in dogs begins with a thorough physical examination, blood tests and urinalysis. To confirm the diagnosis, blood smears or ELISA tests may be performed. Treatment is focused on alleviating the symptoms of Anaplasma, while ensuring traditional antibiotics are still effective in treating the infection. Typically, veterinarians will prescribe doxycycline, an antibiotic that is known to be effective in treating the Anaplasma bacteria. Additional treatments may involve intravenous fluids if the dog is dehydrated or if there are signs of a fever or other issues. In severe cases, supplemental oxygen may be necessary. It’s also important to keep an eye on the dog’s temperature during treatment, as a high fever can be debilitating and even life-threatening if it is left unattended. In addition, regular blood tests should be performed to assess the dog’s health and monitor the efficacy of the treatment.

6. Complications of Infection

Anaplasma infection can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Some of these complications include:

1. Organ damage
2. Liver inflammation
3. Blood clots
4. Respiratory distress
5. Anaplasmosis (a more severe form of the disease)
6. Death

If your dog is showing any of the symptoms of Anaplasma infection, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Failure to treat the infection can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to combat the bacteria, as well as fluids and supportive care to help your pup recover.

7. Prevention of Infection

Preventing infection with Anaplasma in dogs is key to avoiding the symptoms mentioned above. The best way to protect your dog is to keep them up to date with their heartworm preventative medication, as this also protects against Anaplasma. Additionally, keeping your pet away from areas where ticks and other fleas might be present is a good way to reduce their chances of becoming infected. Doing regular tick checks and removing them if found is also recommended, as ticks can spread the disease. Lastly, seeking veterinary care if your pet is showing any symptoms of infection is very important in order to get them the treatment they need.