Dog owners are advised to consider tick control tablets

A LEADING animal health group has advised dog owners to consider vaccinating their dogs against a condition known as Lyme Disease that is caused by tick bites, mostly during the summer months.

As well as affecting dogs, Lyme Disease, is a potentially serious disease for humans with up to 200 cases reported each year in Ireland – symptoms in humans include a rash combined with flu-like symptoms, muscle pain and fatigue.

“Dogs that develop Lyme disease suffer from recurring lameness due to swelling of the joints.  They also show symptoms of fatigue, loss of appetite and fever.  It can also lead to kidney disease.

“If detected in time, Lyme disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics. However, the best approach is to treat dogs with an effective tick control product,” said pet veterinary specialist with MSD Animal Health, Natalie Barry.

She said dogs of all ages were prone to tick infestation and to Lyme disease but younger dogs were especially vulnerable.

MSD Animal Health has produced a new chewable tablet that extends the period of protection against tick attack in dogs by more than 50%.  The tablet, which is available on prescription from local vets, also protects against fleas, another serious pest of dogs especially in summer.