Anaplasmosis in Dogs: Cause, Symptoms and Treatment

When discussing tick-related risks for your dog, Lyme disease typically captures the spotlight. However, there exists another tick-borne ailment known as anaplasmosis, which has the potential to induce symptoms such as bruising, lameness, and even uncontrollable bleeding in your beloved companion. Anaplasmosis gives rise to a diverse array of symptoms in canines, underscoring the significance of pet owners acquainting themselves with this ailment, encompassing its origins, manifestations, treatment options, and precautionary strategies.

Related: Lyme Disease in Dogs

What is Anaplasmosis in Dogs?

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that can affect dogs (and other animals) caused by various species of the Anaplasma bacteria. The most common species responsible for causing anaplasmosis in dogs are Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys.

The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, primarily the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). These ticks become carriers of the Anaplasma bacteria after feeding on an infected animal. When an infected tick bites a dog, it can transmit the bacteria, leading to an infection.

How Serious is Anaplasmosis in Dogs?

In severe cases, anaplasmosis can lead to more serious complications such as kidney failure, bleeding disorders, and in rare instances, death. However, it's important to note that most dogs with anaplasmosis can recover fully with appropriate veterinary care, especially if the disease is diagnosed and treated promptly.

That's why it's important to recognize the symptoms up front and provide treatment in a timely manner.

Anaplasmosis in Dogs Symptoms

In many cases, dogs with anaplasmosis can start showing clinical signs within 1 to 2 weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. Anaplasmosis primarily affects white blood cells (specifically, the neutrophils) and can cause a range of symptoms, which may include:

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Lameness
• Reluctance to move
• Muscle pain
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or small bruises
• Coughing and difficulty breathing
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal disturbances

The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the dog's age, overall health, and the strain of Anaplasma bacteria involved. Anaplasmosis can be especially concerning for dogs with weakened immune systems, older dogs, or those with underlying health issues.

How to Treat Anaplasmosis in Dogs?

Doxycycline is the most common antibiotic used to treat anaplasmosis in dogs. The usual treatment duration is around 30 days. 

After starting treatment, you should closely monitor your dog's symptoms. Improvement in symptoms like fever, lethargy, and lameness can often be seen within the first 24 to 48 hours of starting the antibiotic.

Along with treatment, it's essential to address tick prevention. Preventing future tick bites can help protect your dog from contracting anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases. This might involve using tick repellents, avoiding tick-infested areas, and regular grooming and tick checks.

Can Anaplasmosis in Dogs Be Cured?

In many cases, anaplasmosis in dogs can be successfully treated and managed with appropriate veterinary care. Treatment typically involves the use of antibiotics, such as doxycycline, which is effective against the bacteria causing the infection.

Prevention is also important in managing anaplasmosis. Regular use of tick preventatives and avoiding areas where ticks are commonly found can reduce the risk of infection. Checking your dog for ticks and promptly removing them can also help prevent transmission of the disease.

What Are the Best Ways to Control Ticks?

Tick Prevention Products

There are various tick prevention products available, including topical treatments, oral medications, and collars. These products can repel ticks or kill them upon contact. Some of the commonly used products contain active ingredients like fipronil, permethrin, imidacloprid, fluralaner, and more.

Related: Dried Dead Tick on Dog: What You Need to Know

Use Tick Collars

Tick collars can provide long-lasting protection by releasing chemicals that repel and kill ticks. Make sure to choose a collar that is safe for your dog's size and age, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Tick Shampoos and Dips

Tick-repelling shampoos and dips can be used during baths. These products contain chemicals that help kill and repel ticks. Be cautious when using these products, as some dogs might be sensitive to the chemicals in them.

Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies, such as essential oils (e.g., cedarwood, rosemary, and eucalyptus) or herbal sprays, are believed to repel ticks. 

Vaccinations

In some regions where specific tick-borne diseases are prevalent, your veterinarian might recommend vaccines to protect your dog from these diseases. Vaccination, along with other preventive measures, can help reduce the risk of tick-borne illnesses.

Environmental Control

Regularly mow your lawn and keep grass short to reduce tick habitat. Remove leaf litter and create a clear barrier between wooded areas and your yard. This can help minimize tick exposure in the environment your dog frequents.

Is Anaplasmosis in Dogs Contagious to Humans?

Yes, anaplasmosis in dogs can be contagious to humans. Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum. 

While dogs and humans can both be infected by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, the symptoms and severity of the disease can vary. In dogs, anaplasmosis can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, fever, joint pain, and loss of appetite. In humans, it can cause similar symptoms including fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.

How Long Does Anaplasmosis Last in Dogs?

With proper treatment, which usually involves antibiotics like doxycycline, most dogs will start to show improvement within a few days to a week. However, it's important to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by a veterinarian, even if the dog appears to have fully recovered, to ensure that the infection is completely cleared from the body. The typical course of antibiotics is around 2 to 4 weeks.

Does Anaplasmosis Go Away in Dogs?

The severity of the disease can vary, and in some cases, dogs may recover on their own with appropriate supportive care. Such as hydration, electrolytes, nutritional supplements.

It's important to note that while treatment can help eliminate the infection and alleviate symptoms, dogs that have been infected with anaplasmosis can potentially be re-infected if they are exposed to infected ticks again. Therefore, prevention through tick control measures (using tick preventives, checking for ticks regularly, avoiding tick-infested areas) is crucial to reduce the risk of further infections.

Can Anaplasmosis Cause Seizures in Dogs？

Seizures in dogs can have various causes, such as epilepsy, toxins, metabolic issues, brain tumors, and certain infections affecting the central nervous system. While anaplasmosis primarily affects the immune system and can lead to general symptoms like fever and joint pain, it's not commonly associated with causing seizures.

Conclusion

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that can affect dogs, leading to various symptoms ranging from fever to joint pain. Pet owners should be vigilant about tick prevention and regularly inspect their dogs for ticks, especially during warm months when ticks are more active. Early detection, proper diagnosis, and timely treatment by a veterinarian are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome for dogs affected by anaplasmosis.