Ticks aren’t just an icky nuisance – they can cause serious health problems for animals! Tri-County Humane Society is asking our friends to help us recoup the costs from the recent care of a shelter dog who’s feeling a lot better post-treatment.

 

The dog Ford arrived as a stray at Tri-County Humane Society in early September. Staff quickly noticed his gait was a little off – the 3-year-old pup was limping slightly with a front leg, and his rear legs seemed stiff.

 

After a pain management regimen, full veterinary examination, and assessment, Ford was still having trouble with his back legs. Our medical staff ran an in-house test, and Ford was positive for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, two tick-borne diseases that are common for dogs in Central Minnesota.

Many dogs may test positive for exposure to these tick-borne diseases, yet not all become sick. Just in the past three months, TCHS tested 10 dogs for tick-borne illnesses, with seven testing positive for at least one disease. The dogs at the shelter who show symptoms, like Ford, receive a course of antibiotics and supportive care, including pain management, fluid therapy, and other measures.

Luckily, Ford not only fully recovered after treatment, he also found a home shortly after!

 

We’re asking for $1,000 to replenish the funds spent on Ford’s diagnostics, treatment, and care during his almost six-week stay at Tri-County Humane Society. Please help us be ready to help the next pup, and the next.

And for those of you who have dogs as family members, don’t let the cool autumn weather fool you! Ticks are quite hardy and stay active until there is a consistent ground freeze. We encourage you to make sure your pup is up to date with flea/tick preventatives and to test for tick-borne diseases at your vet annually.