Canine ehrlichiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease that’s been spreading across northern Australia in recent years, posing a serious threat to dogs and a concern for pet owners nationwide. While cases remain most common in the northern regions, the risk of the disease spreading further south means all dog owners should stay vigilant when it comes to tick prevention. Understanding how this disease spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and the best methods of protection is key to keeping your pet safe and healthy.
What Is Canine Ehrlichiosis?
Canine ehrlichiosis is caused by a bacteria called Ehrlichia canis, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). Once bitten, the bacteria enter the dog’s bloodstream, infecting the white blood cells and leading to a range of symptoms that can vary from mild to severe. This disease has been detected in dogs in the Northern Territory, Western Australia, and northern Queensland, and because brown dog ticks are found throughout much of Australia, the potential for spread is significant.
How It Spreads
The brown dog tick is the primary vector of Ehrlichia canis. These ticks thrive in warm, humid environments and can infest both outdoor and indoor areas where dogs live or rest. A single infected tick can transmit the bacteria to a healthy dog through just one bite. Ticks can also travel with dogs or on items such as bedding and gear, meaning infected ticks can be introduced to new regions. This makes prevention especially important if you travel with your pet or live in an area where ticks are common.
Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs
The symptoms of canine ehrlichiosis can appear weeks to months after a tick bite. They often progress in three stages, acute, subclinical, and chronic, with signs varying depending on the stage of infection.
Common symptoms include:
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Fever and lethargy
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
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Swollen lymph nodes
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Pale gums and nose bleeds
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Eye discharge or cloudiness
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Stiffness or lameness
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Anaemia in advanced cases
If left untreated, the infection can become chronic and potentially fatal. Because many of these symptoms are non-specific, it’s vital to seek veterinary advice if your dog shows any signs of illness, especially after being in tick-prone areas.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your vet suspects ehrlichiosis, they can perform blood tests to confirm the presence of Ehrlichia canis. Treatment typically involves a long course of antibiotics, often doxycycline, and supportive care depending on the severity of the infection. Early detection greatly improves the chances of recovery. Even after treatment, some dogs may carry the bacteria in their system for months or years, making tick prevention essential to avoid reinfection or transmission to other dogs.
Tick Prevention Is Key
Prevention is far better than cure when it comes to tick-borne diseases. Because ticks can transmit ehrlichiosis quickly, effective and consistent tick control is the most important step in protecting your dog.
Here are some preventative measures to take:
Use reliable tick preventatives
Choose a vet-approved tick prevention product that suits your dog’s lifestyle and location. Options include topical treatments, tick collars, oral chews, or spot-on applications. Products like NexGard Spectra, Bravecto, or Simparica Trio are commonly recommended. Your vet can advise on the best option for your dog.
Conduct regular tick checks
After walks, trips, or playtime outdoors, thoroughly check your dog’s coat, ears, paws, and under their collar for ticks. Prompt removal can reduce the risk of transmission.
Keep your environment clean
Regularly wash your dog’s bedding, vacuum floors, and keep outdoor areas free from tall grass and leaf litter to reduce tick habitats.
Be extra cautious when travelling north
If you’re taking your dog to northern parts of Australia, such as the Northern Territory or northern Queensland, speak to your vet before you go. They can recommend a comprehensive tick prevention plan tailored to your travel plans and destination.
Avoid areas with known outbreaks
Stay informed about regions where ehrlichiosis has been reported. Government and veterinary websites often share updated maps and alerts.
Speak to Your Vet
Tick prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some products work best for dogs that swim frequently, while others provide extended protection for rural or bushland environments. Speaking to your vet is the best way to determine a safe and effective prevention strategy tailored to your dog. They can also advise you on what symptoms to look for and what to do if you suspect your dog has been exposed to ticks in high-risk areas.
Staying Informed and Vigilant
Canine ehrlichiosis is a serious disease that highlights the importance of proactive tick management across Australia. While it’s most common in the north, the mobility of dogs and ticks means it’s crucial for all pet owners to remain cautious. By using effective tick prevention year-round, performing regular checks, and seeking veterinary advice when needed, you can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of infection. Protect your pet today, speak with your vet and stock up on trusted tick prevention products at Woonona Petfoods. Our team can help you choose safe and effective options to keep your dog protected from ticks and other parasites.
