Clinical Phases of Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Canine ehrlichiosis can progress through three distinct phases: acute, subclinical, and chronic.

1. Acute Phase

This phase begins 1 to 3 weeks after an infected tick bites a dog. The more the bacteria multiply and spread, the more likely dogs may have:

• Fever

• Lethargy or reduced energy

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Loss of appetite

• Minor bleeding

The acute phase may last 4 weeks. Most dogs may fully recover when prompt treatment is administered. 

2. Subclinical Phase

During the subclinical phase, the bacteria will remain in the body without causing obvious symptoms. This stage is often referred to as the "hidden" phase because dogs appear healthy, but the bacteria are silently causing damage.

The bacteria persist in the dog’s immune cells in the subclinical phase. The immune system may try to control the infection, but cannot fully eliminate it. Some dogs remain in this phase for months.

Even if there are no visible signs, blood tests may reveal abnormalities, including a low platelet count. When treatment isn't given, ehrlichiosis in dogs can progress to the chronic phase. 

3. Chronic Phase

The chronic phase is the most severe and can have life-threatening consequences. Dogs in this phase will often experience extensive damage to their organs and immune systems. The common symptoms of this phase of ehrlichiosis in dogs include:

• Severe weight loss

• Pale gums due to anemia

• Spontaneous bleeding or bruising

• Persistent fever

• Enlarged spleen

• Disorientation or difficulty walking

Dogs in the chronic phase may also develop secondary infections mainly because of their compromised immune systems.

How Do Vets Diagnose Ehrlichiosis in Dogs?

Our process relies on specific laboratory tests to detect the canine Ehrlichia bacteria and their effects. 

• Complete Blood Count. A CBC is often performed to assess a dog’s overall health, looking for changes such as low platelet, red blood cell, and white blood cell counts.

• Serology Tests. These tests can detect the specific antibodies produced by the dog’s immune system in response to the infection by Ehrlichia bacteria. This may include ELISA tests and an IFA.

• Polymerase Chain Reaction Test. The PCR test is considered one of the most accurate diagnostic tests for ehrlichiosis in dogs. It works by detecting Ehrlichia DNA in the blood. 

• Blood Smear Examination. In this test, a drop of the dog’s blood is examined under a microscope. Through this, our vets can look for Ehrlichia organisms inside white blood cells. 

How Is Ehrlichiosis in Dogs Treated?

The treatment process will focus on eliminating the bacteria and helping with recovery. 

Antibiotics

The cornerstone of canine ehrlichiosis treatment is the use of medications. Antibiotic therapy is highly effective when administered promptly, and doxycycline is one of the most common choices.

Generally, the treatment process will be done for 3 to 4 weeks, depending on your dog’s condition and the severity of the disease.

Supportive Care

Additionally, supportive care treatments will also be used to support your dog’s treatment. Intravenous fluids will be used to rehydrate your dogs and restore electrolyte balance, especially if they have lost their appetite. Blood transfusions will also be considered.

Pain medications can also be used to deal with joint pain and inflammation, helping improve your dog’s comfort. Additionally, we’ll also look to help your dog regain its strength through nutritional support. This is important for dogs who have lost a ton of weight.

What Happens if Ehrlichiosis Is Left Untreated in Dogs?

If canine ehrlichiosis is left untreated, it can progress from an acute infection to a much more severe, long-term condition. Several health problems may also arise, including severe anemia, organ damage, blood disorders, neurological dysfunction, and bone marrow failure. It may also lead to death. 

How to Prevent Ehrlichiosis in Dogs?

The best way to keep our dogs safe from ehrlichiosis is to prevent ticks from coming into contact with them. 

1. Provide Regular Preventives 

The most effective strategy is to minimize your dog’s exposure to ticks. Regularly applying pet-safe products such as topical treatments, oral medications, or tick collars can protect your dog by either repelling or killing ticks. 

If you need help with this step, our clinic is ready to provide the anti-tick medications your dog needs. Plus, we can also take the time to check your dog for any issues that should be addressed. 

2. Groom Your Dog

Pay close attention to areas like the ears, neck, armpits, between the toes, and around the tail. Use vet-approved shampoos and be sure to dry your dog after. 

If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers or a tick removal tool. Removing ticks is important as ticks usually require just 3 to 6 hours to transmit the canine Ehrlichia bacteria. 

3. Manage Your Dog’s Environment

Keeping your dog’s home clean is another important part of prevention. Ticks thrive in outdoor areas such as the yard, where tall grass and bushes are prevalent.

Mow your lawn and trim your bushes to make your yard less attractive to ticks. If possible, limit your dog’s access to wooded or high-risk areas where ticks are abundant. 

“Your dog relies on you to shield them from the many diseases that can endanger its health.”

- Dr. Mafalda Sardinha

Final Thoughts

Ehrlichiosis in dogs can be quite concerning, but it can easily be prevented with regular treatments and preventives. Having a good understanding of this disease goes a long way in creating a better and safer life for your best friend.