CANINE LYME BORRELIOSIS

Lyme borreliosis is a widespread spirochetal disease of dogs that is v ectored primarily by ticks of the Ixodes ricinus complex. Ticks of thi s complex are infected by the causative agent, Borrelia burgdorferi. A ffected dogs may demonstrate limb and joint abnormalities, nephropathy , carditis, or neurologic abnormalities. Diagnosis of canine borrelios is is complicated by the lack of a specific laboratory test for the di sease and a high prevalence of seropositive, healthy dogs in enzootic areas. Clinically, antibiotic therapy is directed toward killing spiro chetes and appropriate supportive therapy is directed toward alleviati ng signs in the affected organ system. Prevention of canine borreliosi s is based on tick avoidance, vaccination, or a combination of these t wo modalities. Continued research on the pathogenesis and immunology o f canine disease is needed; and collaborative efforts among academic r esearchers, veterinarians, and biological research and development sci entists can help clarify clinical aspects and consolidate research kno wledge.